Farry joins Pennsylvania State Senate to honor America 250 with ceremonial gathering in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA – The Pennsylvania State Senate held a ceremonial gathering on Tuesday at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to honor America’s 250th birthday, said Sen. Frank Farry (R-6).
Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward presided over the meeting, which included senators representing all corners of the commonwealth and students from across the state as part of a partnership with America250PA.
The United States declared its independence in Philadelphia in 1776 and to this day the Keystone State continues to play a major role in the growth and evolution of the nation. The ceremonial gathering of the Pennsylvania State Senate is a historical tradition.
Farry was joined at the ceremony by Sarah Xue, a junior at Council Rock High School South, who was chosen to attend after submitting a winning essay on Alexander Hamilton’s inspiration to her life.
“As we approach America’s 250th birthday, it’s important to come together as a community to reflect on the values that unite us,” Farry said. “This historic day highlighted the voices and perspectives of our next generation. Seeing students like Sarah engaged in the moment reminds us that the strength of our future lies in the people and communities we continue to invest in today.”
The contest invited high school students in the 6th Senatorial District to address the prompt: “Which Founding Father or historical figure from the Founding Era do you find most relatable or inspiring — and why?” A panel of educators and veterans selected twelve finalists based on originality, clarity, impact and personal connection. “General George Washington” then randomly selected the winner from the twelve finalists.
Tuesday marked the fourth meeting in the last 100 years that has taken place outside of the State Capitol in Harrisburg. The previous three meetings were also held in Philadelphia to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Independence in 1926, and the 200th anniversary of the Declaration’s signing in 1976. The Pennsylvania State Senate held a similar gathering in September 1987 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States Constitution.
