South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice John W. Kittredge, left, presents Dr. Richard Cosentino, president of Lander University, with a copy of “The Declaration of Thanksgiving and Celebration.” Photo by Lara Zuk
As the United States looks to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, leaders of South Carolina’s three branches of government have co-signed a joint proclamation that honors America’s founding ideals.
Limited copies of the joint proclamation are being made available to the state’s public agencies and institutions of higher education. Lander University was among the first to receive a copy from the South Carolina Supreme Court’s chief justice, the Honorable John W. Kittredge.
Titled “The Declaration of Thanksgiving and Celebration,” the proclamation recognizes the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, as a monumental moment not only in American history, but human history. The co-signers of the joint proclamation – representing the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government – emphasized the importance of maintaining the ideals first enshrined in the Declaration of Independence: liberty, equality, respectful civil discourse and respect for the rule of law.
“Few moments in world history are remembered centuries later, and fewer still alter the course of human events,” the proclamation reads. “The signing of the Declaration of Independence was one such rare and decisive moment. With its adoption, the signers implemented a revolutionary idea: that legitimate government derives its power from the consent of the People. From that idea emerged a new nation dedicated to securing its citizens' fundamental rights to liberty and equality.”
Following his keynote address at the 173rd Commencement Ceremonies at Lander University, Kittredge – a co-signer of the proclamation – presented a copy to Lander’s president, Dr. Richard Cosentino, who accepted it on behalf of the University.
In addition to the chief justice, the proclamation is also signed by Governor Henry McMaster; Senator Thomas Alexander, president of the South Carolina Senate; and Representative Murrell Smith, speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives.
Cosentino said receiving the proclamation was a great honor. “This proclamation is a powerful reminder of the ideals of liberty, service and civic responsibility that continue to shape our nation and inspire future generations,” Cosentino said. “At Lander, we are proud to help educate students who will carry forward the spirit of leadership, service and respect for the rule of law that our founders envisioned for America. We appreciate the generosity of Chief Justice John Kittredge in giving this proclamation to Lander University.”