Chicago, IL – July 4, 2025 — The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-Chicago), in collaboration with the Indian Community of Niles Township (ICNT), celebrated U.S. Independence Day.
A ceremonial flag hoisting at Shree Jalaram Mandir, kickstarted the celebrations where community leaders, families, and well-wishers gathered “to honor the values of freedom, unity, and democracy that define the American spirit,” organizers said in a press release.
Later, FIA-Chicago and ICNT participated in the Skokie Independence Day Parade—a multicultural celebration of liberty. FIA’s group boasted banners and American flags, highlighting shared democratic values and cultural harmony. Volunteers, youth groups, and community members marched chanted patriotic slogans, waving flags, and celebrating the friendship between the U.S. and India.
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A message from FIA-Chicago President Hemant Patel, said, “Freedom was not free. July 4th should be celebrated with two emotions—joy for our freedom and gratitude for the sacrifices behind it. Forgetting them risks losing it. We must stay vigilant and protect the world’s oldest and largest democracies—America and India.”
“As the voice of Indian Americans in Chicago since 1980, FIA-Chicago remains dedicated to fostering civic engagement, celebrating democratic values, and honoring those who paved the path to liberty and justice,” organizers said.
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