Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom: A Reflection on the Bill of Rights
Two and a half centuries ago, our Nation sprang from the crucible of liberty, shaking off the chains of tyranny as courageous citizens united to forge a Republic under divine guidance, dedicated to the time-honored principles of sovereignty, justice, and self-determination. Today, we take pride in commemorating the ratification of our Bill of Rights — the groundbreaking document that enshrines in law the fundamental tenets of freedom, human dignity, and due process upon which the United States was constructed. On this Bill of Rights Day, we reaffirm the audacious vision laid out by our Founding Fathers, recommitting ourselves to the enduring freedoms enshrined in this document and pledging to preserve, protect, and defend our God-given rights, our rich American heritage, and our constitutional way of life.
Historical Context: From Revolution to Ratification
In the aftermath of the Revolutionary War, the architects of our Constitution recognized the necessity of establishing 10 fundamental safeguards against governmental overreach, collectively known as the “Bill of Rights.” Emerging from decades of oppressive British rule, James Madison — often hailed as the Father of the Constitution — understood that it was imperative to clearly delineate the freedoms protected by law, thus paving the way for the realization of authentic self-governance. Initially skeptical that a written bill of rights could effectively counter tyranny, Madison was ultimately persuaded by his compatriot Thomas Jefferson, who argued, “A bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, general or particular, and what no just government should refuse or rest on inference.”
The Birth of Fundamental Freedoms
In 1789, the First Congress of the United States drafted the initial ten amendments to the Constitution, subsequently sending them to the States for ratification. This momentous act secured a suite of freedoms that would be impervious to the whims of tyrants — including the rights to free speech and worship, the right to bear arms, protections against unlawful arrests and the seizure of private property, assurances of a swift and fair trial, and safeguards against cruel and unusual punishment. Moreover, it affirmed that all powers not delegated to the Federal Government reside with the States.
Enduring Principles in Modern America
More than two centuries later, these foundational principles remain the lifeblood of our Republic, at the core of our laws, governance, and everyday lives. The framers knew that simply putting pen to paper would not suffice; our rights are upheld by the enduring principles of separation of powers, due process, checks and balances, and States’ rights. Above all, they recognized that the sustainability of these rights hinges on a virtuous and engaged citizenry, committed to the values that birthed our Republic and upheld our liberty through the myriad challenges we have faced since July 4, 1776.
A Commitment to Constitutional Integrity
Every day, my Administration is steadfastly working to safeguard these freedoms, the essence of American citizenship, and our constitutional legacy. We are reestablishing the rule of law, standing against left-wing legal overreach, reforming corrupt bureaucracies, and ensuring that Washington serves the American people, rather than the other way around.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy to Uphold
As we approach the momentous occasion of 250 years of American independence next year, we proudly carry forward the legacy forged by our Founders amidst revolution. We renew our commitment to championing the common good and the inherent dignity of every individual — and above all, we pledge to preserve the promise of a proud, free, self-governing Republic for ourselves and future generations.
Proclamation of Bill of Rights Day
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim December 15, 2025, as Bill of Rights Day. I call upon the people of the United States, especially teachers, educators, and school administrators, to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
