The North Carolina state Senate gathered for a ceremonial session to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary this year at the state capitol building on Tuesday.
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The historic building first housed legislative sessions in 1840, continuing until 1961 when state lawmakers moved into the current legislative building nearby in downtown Raleigh.
Fourteen senators spoke during the session, addressing the state’s role in the Declaration of Independence and highlighting the contribution of North Carolina counties, individuals, and women to the American Revolution.
Several senators referenced the Halifax Resolves, a resolution that made North Carolina the first colony to formally call for independence from Great Britain. The resolution was passed on April 12th, 1776, a date commemorated on the state flag, and the origin of the famous state slogan “First in Freedom.”
“North Carolina’s proud legacy as the first in freedom continues to inspire its citizens and reflects the state’s enduring commitment to the principles of freedom representing the government and responsibility that remain the foundation of our nation,” said Sen. Carl Ford (R-Rowan).
“It is fitting to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America to honor North Carolina’s indispensable contributions to our nation’s independence and founding, and to celebrate this historic milestone in the North Carolina State Capitol, where the legacy of our state and nation continues to be preserved for future generations,” Ford said.
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Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch (D-Wake) highlighted those who were omitted from the Declaration of Independence, including women and people of color – “an omission that millions paid for with their body, their labor, their freedom, and their lives,” Batch said.
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She pointed out that enslaved craftsmen built both the capitol building and the very desks that they were sitting at. She concluded by recognizing that while some progress has been made in the last 250 years, there is still a long way to go.
“This legislature’s the most diverse it has ever been, the circle looks more diverse, but the circle of power looks much the same,” Batch said. “We are not there yet, we still aren’t, but we are trying.”
Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) praised North Carolina as a leader at America’s founding and said it continues to be a leader today.
“The people of North Carolina come here today to recognize our past with all its greatness and some flaws, and recognize the work that we have to do in order to continue the work that they began 250 years ago,” Berger said.
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