Governor Celebrates America’s Milestone with Emphasis on North Carolina’s Historic Role
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Governor Josh Stein delivered a stirring address on the Fourth of July, reflecting on North Carolina’s pivotal contributions to the nation’s journey toward freedom. The governor highlighted the state’s involvement in crucial historical movements, including the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, women’s suffrage, and the Civil Rights Movement, solidifying North Carolina as the ‘First in Freedom’ state.
“Every time our nation faced a defining moment over the past 250 years, North Carolinians reached out, grabbed the baton of freedom, and carried it farther than where they found it. Now, we have that same responsibility,” said Governor Josh Stein. He emphasized unity, stating, “In our democracy, there is no challenge we cannot overcome when we come together across our differences. And when we remember that freedom, justice, and opportunity bind us together as Americans, that’s how we create a ‘united’ United States of America.”
The governor’s speech was part of the “Capitol 250: NC Freedom Fest” held at the State Capitol, an event organized by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to celebrate the Fourth of July. The festival featured a range of activities, including a naturalization ceremony, and celebrated the arts, history, nature, and culture that define North Carolina’s contribution to the nation.
Click here to view Governor Stein’s address.
Governor Stein’s Speech
Addressing a crowd under the intense North Carolina sun, Governor Stein called the gathering a celebration of ‘America 250’ and the freedom that unites the nation. Acknowledging everyone present as patriots, he urged attendees to stay hydrated and find shade if needed.
The governor expressed gratitude to various officials and organizations for orchestrating the day’s events. Special recognition was given to Major James Capers, a Medal of Honor recipient, highlighting the service of veterans and active-duty servicemembers present.
Earlier in the day, Governor Stein and First Lady Anna Stein participated in a naturalization ceremony, welcoming 49 new citizens from 25 different countries, underscoring the ongoing promise of America’s ideals.
Reflecting on North Carolina’s Historical Contributions
Governor Stein drew attention to North Carolina’s historical milestones starting with the Halifax Resolves of 1776, led by Cornelius Harnett, which made North Carolina the first state to call for independence from the British Crown. The governor acknowledged the importance of patriots like Harnett, who risked everything for the belief in self-governance.
The governor referenced Frederick Douglass’s 1852 speech denouncing slavery and advocating for America to uphold the principles of the Declaration of Independence. Wilmington native Abraham Galloway was also spotlighted for his pivotal role as a Union spy and advocate for Black men’s right to vote during the Civil War.
Gertrude Weil’s advocacy for women’s suffrage and Henry Frye’s efforts against Jim Crow laws were highlighted as examples of North Carolinians advancing freedom for all. These stories were presented as part of a larger narrative of individuals who have carried the ‘baton of freedom’ throughout history.
The governor concluded by emphasizing the ongoing responsibility of North Carolinians to uphold and advance the democratic ideals that lie at the heart of the nation’s founding.
North Carolina’s vibrant history, from its role in the birth of American independence to its ongoing contributions to national unity, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. As Governor Stein noted, the state’s legacy is not only in its past but in the choices made today, continuing to carry the torch of freedom forward.
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