Let Freedom Ring

While attending a recent conference in Philadelphia, I had the opportunity to visit Liberty Bell. Philadelphia is such a historic city, with sites that represent the very beginnings of our nation, such as Independence Hall, the President’s House, and the Betsy Ross House. During a time in our country when there appears to be so much division, I wanted to visit a landmark that has been a symbol of freedom for all. Liberty Bell bears a timeless message: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout all the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof”.

The speaker of the Pennsylvania assembly ordered that a bell be placed at what is now Independence Hall to commemorate the 50th anniversary of William Penn’s Charter of Privileges, which outlined Penn’s ideas of rights and freedoms. Penn’s charter of Privileges laid the groundwork for a free society: free enterprise, free press, freedom of worship, the right to secure private property, and the right of individuals to speak their mind.

The name of the bell was later changed to “Liberty Bell” when it was adopted as a symbol of putting an end to slavery in America. A little-known fact is that the Bell was removed from Philadelphia in 1777 under armed guard and taken to Allentown, PA, where it was hidden in a church. The fear was that the British would melt it and use it to make cannons. It was returned to Philadelphia the following year.

In times like these, we need symbols (reminders) that bring us together and help us find common ground. I hope this picture of Liberty Bell encourages you today to embrace ideas that unify us for the greater good. Let’s not forget the freedoms that Penn outlined in his Charter of Privileges to ensure a free society.

Source: constitutioncenter.org, ushistory.org, firstamendment.mtsu.edu