Students Join Local State Senators For Historic Session At Constitution Center

The Pennsylvania State Senate convened for a rare ceremonial session last Tuesday at the National Constitution Center.

The gathering of state lawmakers in Philadelphia was to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

The session was presided over by Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward.

According to State Sen. Frank Farry, a Republican representing the Sixth Senatorial District, the assembly was only the fourth time in the last century that the state Senate has met outside of Harrisburg.

Previous off-site sessions were held in Philadelphia in 1926 and 1976 to mark the 150th and 200th anniversaries of the Declaration of Independence, and again in 1987 for the bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution.

“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.”

Sarah Xue, a junior at Council Rock High School South in Northampton Township, was selected to join Farry at the session after winning an essay contest that asked students which Founding Era figure they found most inspiring.

Xue wrote in her essay about the impact Alexander Hamilton has had on her life.

The contest winner was chosen through a selection process: after a panel of educators and veterans narrowed the field to 12 finalists based on originality and impact, a “General George Washington” reenactor randomly drew the winner from the group.

“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,” Farry said.

State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, a Democrat representing the 10th Senatorial District, was accompanied by Central Bucks East High School junior Bradley Campbell and his mother.

The event came as the state and nation prepare to host 250th celebrations.

The National Constitution Center opened in 2003 and sits on Independence Mall within sight of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell pavilion.