Reed Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary
With joy, gratitude, & pride, RIers get set to celebrate nation’s independence and 250th birthday with patriotic festivities
PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, in honor of America’s semiquincentennial on July 4, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:
“Happy 4th of July and happy 250th anniversary, America!
“In the summer of 1776, over 50 individuals – including two Rhode Islanders – risked everything to sign the Declaration of Independence.
“From 13 original colonies a united collection of spirited states came together, defeated the British, and achieved independence.
“Through national triumphs, challenges, and tragedies — our great democratic experiment has proven that a system of government where power flows from the people to the state, not the other way around, can succeed.
“Today, we as Americans are bound to one another and called upon individually and collectively to help author America’s next chapter.
“Unlike the signers of the Declaration of Independence, we needn’t risk being charged with treason in order to do our part.
“But keeping America strong requires an engaged citizenry and active participation in civic life. As Americans, we have different views and ideas and vigorously debate and peacefully contest them. But we must never lose sight of the fact that we are a nation of laws and we have a shared responsibility to uphold the law and our constitutional principles.
“Our allegiance is to the Constitution, not a king. We stand for freedom of speech and religion, and the freedom to petition our government for a redress of our grievances. We carry forth the torch our founders lit and continue working to uphold the promise of equality and liberty for all.
“Our nation’s 250th birthday is also a time to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. From Continental Army volunteers to our professional, all-volunteer forces today, we honor those who have stood a post for freedom, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Inspired by their example — and the example of first responders who rush to help others and serve the community — it is our duty as citizens to help build a more perfect union and defend and advance the rights and core values for which our forbearers fought. We must ensure America lives up to its promise as a place where all men and women are equal and everyone has the right to live with freedom and dignity.
“We must defend America — not just against foreign foes but from apathy, cynicism, and corruption from within and from those who would seek to divide us.
“Despite the fact that we are a big, diverse nation with a healthy spirit of individualism, we share a commitment to our founding truths: that we are all created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
“While fiercely independent, we must remain connected and tightly woven together like the broad stripes and bright stars stitched upon our flag (and with a healthy dose of HOPE emblazoned across the Rhode Island state flag too).
“Just as the American flag has evolved over time, so too has our country. It has gotten bigger, stronger and more inclusive. The American experience has changed, the challenges we face evolve, but our ability as Americans to come together remains a constant. From revolutions to world wars to pandemics to national tragedies: Americans have always united and sacrificed for the common good.
“That is the patriotic spirit and heritage we celebrate today and pass along to future generations. That is how the American experiment will continue flourishing. Together, our work continues. Far and wide, let freedom ring!”
