Harris Speaks at Philadelphia's Famous Steps: A Moment of History
On July 4th, 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a powerful speech at the Philadelphia Museum of Art's iconic steps, the very same steps made famous by the iconic "Rocky" movie franchise. Her address, part of the "Our Constitution: A Conversation About the Future" series, focused on the enduring relevance of the Constitution and the fight for voting rights.
A Call to Action for Democracy
Harris's speech was a passionate call to action, urging Americans to defend the foundational principles of democracy, particularly in the face of growing threats to voting rights. She spoke about the need to protect the right to vote, highlighting the history of the struggle for suffrage and the ongoing efforts to suppress voting access.
"We must never take for granted the right to vote, the right to have a voice in our democracy," she stated, emphasizing the importance of active participation in the political process.
Echoing the Words of the Past
Standing at the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed, Harris connected the historical significance of Philadelphia to the present-day fight for democracy. Her words resonated with the echoes of the Founding Fathers, reminding the audience of the fragility of freedom and the importance of safeguarding it.
"The fight for voting rights is not new. It has been a constant struggle throughout our history," she explained, drawing parallels between the past and present challenges to democratic principles.
A Moment of Reflection
The speech, delivered on a day of national celebration, offered a moment for reflection on the state of American democracy. It served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight to ensure equal rights and access to the political process.
Beyond the Steps
Harris's address at the Philadelphia Museum of Art's steps was more than just a speech. It was a call to action, a call to recommit to the ideals of democracy and actively participate in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Her words, delivered against the backdrop of a landmark symbolic of American history, resonated far beyond the steps themselves, carrying a message of hope and determination for the future of democracy.