Pennsylvania’s newest license plate has the slogan “Let Freedom Ring,” with the Liberty Bell in the middle. Think about what it means.
Martin Luther King Jr. used this phrase in his “I Have a Dream” speech during the Civil Rights Movement in 1963. Sixty-three years later, we are still fighting for rights and freedoms for all people, regardless of race, religion or gender.
You will also find the words in the song, “America (My Country, ’Tis of Thee)” in the last line of the first verse. Also in that verse are the words, “Land where my fathers died,” and I think of those who fought in wars to protect our freedoms, including my father, and most recently, the six soldiers who died in Iran so senselessly. They were true patriots.
I am heartbroken by the refusal of this current administration to bring about unity in this country and abroad. I feel there is an attack on our liberties every day. President Trump is not a unifying president. When he speaks, I don’t hear any empathy in his voice/words. I think his only goal is that of being power-hungry (authoritarian), catering to his GOP loyalists and making his rich friends richer. I don’t think he cares about the needs of average Americans.
The late, great John Lewis wrote in an essay prior to his death and released on the day of his funeral, “Now it is your turn to let freedom ring.”
Freedom is my God-given right that I cherish and I’m sure you do too. It’s our turn. Let’s continue to fight for it!
Marianne Rossi-Brown
Greensburg