We hold that these truths are self-evident: that all are created equal, with equal protection under the law, with equal standing before the law, with an equal chance at happiness. These high ideals shook the world to its very foundations over 240 years ago. Freedom to speak. Freedom to report the truth to the people. Freedom to protest, Freedom to assemble. Freedom to seek redress of grievances. Freedom to demand justice. These ideals of our nation have been continually consecrated by the blood, sweat, and tears offered by the American people from generation to generation.
Who are these patriots who every generation arise to take up the banner of justice and freedom? The labor unionist, the journalists, the civil rights activists. Ordinary everyday citizens. Where is their battlefield? Hear the gunfire in the Colorado mining fields and feel the explosion in Haymarket Square. See the dogs of war unleashed in Birmingham. Feel the tramp of feet as the solemn marchers breach the racist heart of Selma.
Hear these echoes of the revolution. Hear them and remember. Hear them call for justice. Hear them call for equality. Hear them call for freedom.
Feel the spirit of the revolution in the air. Smell the tear gas in Lafayette Park. Hear the sirens and rubber bullets in our cities. See our people joined in a bloody battle in our streets for equality. For justice. For freedom. Pledge to each other your lives, your fortunes, and your sacred honor. Remember the revolution. Rekindle it in your hearts.
Forward. Together.
