Inside Biden-led White House’s Fourth of July celebrations: Watch

The White House had planned a full day of events for the entire country to enjoy, along with the First Family. These events included an address from President Joe Biden, a fireworks show at the national mall and a barbeque at the White House.

With worries about growing inflation and gun violence in the country, Biden delivered an address on Monday. He tried to speak with a hopeful tone and said, “I know it can be exhausting and unsettling. But tonight, I want you to know we’re going to get through all of this.”

Also Read: Highland Park shooting: In 185 days of this year, 309 mass shootings in United States

Biden also wrote in a social media post before taking the stage to deliver his Fourth of July address. “Make no mistake, our best days still lie ahead”, he wrote.

This was followed by a backyard barbeque event at the White House, which was largely attended by active military personnel and their families. A similar Fourth of July celebration at the White House last year marked America’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The First Family, along with US Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, then proceeded to the national mall in Washington DC. A 15-minute firework show was set up there.

Watch the fireworks here:

Also Read: This Fourth of July, your beer may be cheaper than hot dogs

Celebrations marred by a shooting

At least six people were killed after a gunman on a rooftop opened fire on an Independence Day parade in suburban Chicago on Monday. More than two dozen people were also injured in the incident. Law enforcement officials later said that Robert E. Crimo III was a person of interest in the shooting.

President Joe Biden on Monday said he and first lady Jill Biden were “shocked by the senseless gun violence that has yet again brought grief to an American community on this Independence Day.”