Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my legislation, the Flushing Remonstrance Study Act, H.R. 3222. This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of the Flushing Remonstrance and significant local resources. The Flushing Remonstrance is not only an important part of my local history, but also a significant event in our Nation's history. The Flushing Remonstrance is recognized as a precursor to the First Amendment and our Nation's commitment to the freedom of religion. During these troubling times in which religious freedom is not a globally recognized right, it is especially important to remember the history of our great Nation and the heroic actions taken by those before us to ensure individual liberty. In the mid-17th century, the Quakers residing in New Netherland, an area including parts of what is now New York State, were not allowed to observe their religious traditions and practices. In response to this injustice, a group of local non-Quaker activists wrote the Flushing Remonstrance as a declaration against religious persecution in an attempt to allow the free practice of one's religion. It was met with great opposition from the local government, and an effective ban on specific practices was enforced. John Bowne arrived in New Netherland during this time and proceeded to hold Quaker meetings in his home despite the political repercussions. He was eventually arrested, fined, and deported.…”