West El Paso celebrates the Fourth of July with 22nd annual parade

The Rotary Club of West El Paso held its 22nd annual 4th of July Parade on Wednesday.

Folks lined the streets of Mesa Street and Shadow Mountain to celebrate our nation’s independence.

Ruth Salinas told ABC-7 that she has not missed a parade since she moved to El Paso from Brooklyn, NY, 14 years ago.

“I come here every year with my kids,” Salinas said. “I just love watching the policemen, the firemen, and all the floats. It’s a great way to start my Fourth of July.”

Henry Ortiz dressed up in patriotic colors and adorned his trailer with flags from military branches, first responders and law enforcement.

“Our family has a long tradition with the service, and so do my friends,” Ortiz said. “We always like to give a little bit back to reflect how we feel about their service.”

Many at the parade said this was a great opportunity to step back from the differences and division facing our nation and unite to celebrate our independence.

“We all have a common love of the country even though we are so divided,” said Valerie Yenshaw. Yenshaw lives overseas and is in El Paso on vacation. She thinks this is an opportunity to enjoy the Fourth of July with her fellow Americans, despite differences.

“It’s nice to remind ourselves that we are all Americans,” Yenshaw added.

The parade lasted well over two hours and featured El Paso Mayor Dee Margo as the Grand Marshal, along with horses, monster trucks and floats.