PRINTER'S NO. 1261
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SENATE RESOLUTION
No.
214
Session of
2023
INTRODUCED BY HAYWOOD, BREWSTER, SAVAL, HUGHES, STREET, FONTANA,
TARTAGLIONE, KANE, CAPPELLETTI AND COMITTA, DECEMBER 8, 2023
REFERRED TO RULES AND EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS, DECEMBER 8, 2023
A RESOLUTION
Honoring freedom fighters in recognition of their vast and
valiant efforts to ensure the civil rights of individuals
across the globe.
WHEREAS, The protection of civil rights and civil liberties
is essential to the well-being of a free and democratic society;
and
WHEREAS, This Commonwealth has a diverse population whose
contributions to this Commonwealth are vital to its economy,
culture and civic character; and
WHEREAS, The dangerous rhetoric espoused by individuals and
groups who wish to threaten this diverse population pose a
particular threat to the civil rights and liberties of the
residents of our Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, Throughout history, freedom fighters have worked to
protect individuals and groups from political repression and
discrimination by governments and private organizations; and
WHEREAS, These influential figures have sought to ensure the
ability of all members of society to participate in civil and
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political life; and
WHEREAS, By engaging in resistance movements against
oppressive and illegitimate governments, freedom fighters have
promoted and implemented political freedom and the expansion of
personal civil liberties and rights; and
WHEREAS, Although the term "freedom fighter" is sometimes co-
opted to describe those engaged in terrorism or insurrection,
freedom fighters are better described as revolutionists and
abolitionists that overcome obstacles to freedom; and
WHEREAS, We must recognize the courage and tenacity of
freedom fighters such as LGBTQIA+ activists Frank Kameny and
Marsha P. Johnson, holocaust survivor and human rights champion
Elie Wiesel, anti-apartheid activist Desmond Tutu and Pakistani
education activist Malala Yousafzai; and
WHEREAS, It is more important now than ever before to learn
from the accomplishments and contributions of freedom fighters,
mirroring their efforts to overcome obstacles that continue to
prevent Pennsylvanians and citizens around the globe from
achieving true freedom; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate honor the freedom fighters that
have put their lives on the line to defend the dignity of
repressed entities worldwide.
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