225 years ago, a set of principles, set forth by intellectuals, politicians, merchants and statesman became the guiding principle for the beginnings of a great democracy. This document, and it's written and unwritten principles, have survived war, depression and internal strife, only to emerge as a undamaged pillar for the every growing sense of inclusiveness and participation that defines our countries' evolving governance.
Throughout the last two-and-a-quarter centuries, despots, tyrants, revolutionaries and military juntas have challenged and upended their governments, creating chaos and uncertainty. Those who disagree were thrown in jail, tortured or killed. Religion was used as a tool for oppression and disenfranchisement. When the United States faced a crisis, our Presidents, statesmen and leaders did not abandon our democracy. They debated and discussed how we could maintain a Union. And, they did this by consulting and interpreting the Constitution and the principles therein.
We have proven that key tenets of our democracy, like freedom of the press, assembly, speech, religion and petition are essential for both our survival and our evolution as a country. While many will disagree on how these principles are afforded, they will defend to the end our right to have them. It is a tradition, set in precedence, that is uniquely American.
As Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "the law, wherein, as in a magic mirror, we see reflected, not only our own lives, but the lives of all men that have been"
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