As posted online and printed on the Ormond Beach Observer.

URL: https://www.observerlocalnews.com/news/2025/jul/01/2-letters-on-ormonds-international-festival-lifeguard-shortage/

Dear Editor:

In a time when division and anger dominate far too many headlines, the City of Ormond Beach stood tall — not in protest, but in pride. Thanks to the heartfelt leadership of William Sanchez, on June 14, our city hosted a radiant and inspiring International Festival Day at Rockefeller Gardens, shining as a beacon of unity while other communities around the country were engulfed in protests rooted in fear.

Mr. Sanchez reminded us all of a simple truth: we are all immigrants. On this special day, Ormond Beach chose to honor its diversity, not deny it. Eighteen countries were represented — including our own United States — each proudly sharing their heritage through music, food, dance, and joyful connection. The National Anthem was sung. A dignified presentation of the colors by the Ormond Beach Civil Air Patrol Honor Guard, grounding the celebration in both patriotism and purpose.

While some parents elsewhere were teaching their children to resent — Ormond Beach families were teaching their children something far greater to celebrate. Their diversity.

Children ran from the petting zoo to international booths with wide-eyed excitement, laughing, learning, and embracing each other’s cultures without fear or judgment. Their parents joined in the joy, grateful for a community that fosters kindness, education, and respect.

William Sanchez didn’t stop at planning a day — he created a legacy. Through the newly formed Cultural Awareness Fund, he is ensuring that this celebration of humanity and heritage continues to grow. In his words, from the Ormond Observer:

"I think people have forgotten what this country was built on — the foundation of it. It was built on the backs of immigrants, all of us. Whether it was 250 years ago or it is today."

Let this be the beginning of an annual tradition in Ormond Beach. Let our city serve as a model of what is possible when we lead with gratitude instead of fear, with empathy instead of resentment. We are proud to live in a city that celebrates all its people.

We are already looking forward to next year’s International Day Festival — and the continued celebration of what truly makes America beautiful.

Barbara Sandberg

Ormond Beach