[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 147 (Friday, September 20, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E936]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SIGNING OF THE FAIRFAX 
 RESOLVES AND THE FAIRFAX RESOLVES CHAPTER OF THE VIRGINIA SONS OF THE 
                          AMERICAN REVOLUTION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 20, 2024

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 250th 
anniversary of the signing of the Fairfax Resolves and the Fairfax 
Resolves Chapter of the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution for 
the exemplary service and invaluable contributions to the Commonwealth 
of Virginia.
  The Fairfax Resolves Chapter has long been recognized as a pillar of 
strength and resilience within the Fairfax community. Since their 
establishment, they have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to 
defending the ideals and principles upon which our Nation was founded.
  Their tireless efforts in preserving our historical heritage and 
honoring our Nation's values have had a profound impact on our society. 
From their active involvement in local events to their extremely 
informative educational initiatives, the Fairfax Resolves Chapter has 
consistently demonstrated the highest standards of duty and patriotism.
  This year, the Fairfax Resolves Chapter was a leader in the efforts 
to commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of 
the Fairfax Resolves. On July 5, 1774, George Washington, George Mason 
and other leaders of Fairfax County met in Alexandria, Virginia to 
appoint a committee to draft a document that would serve as 
instructions to the County's delegates at the Virginia Convention and, 
as Washington put it, ``define our Constitutional Rights.'' George 
Washington and George Mason met at Mount Vernon and drafted a set of 
resolutions that came to be known as the Fairfax Resolves. At a meeting 
of Fairfax County residents on July 18, 1774, the Fairfax Resolves were 
adopted.
  While other counties across Virginia and in other American colonies 
adopted resolutions of ``resolves'' during the late spring and summer 
of 1774, the Fairfax Resolves were the most detailed, the most 
influential and most radical. The Fairfax Resolves was an important 
influence on the drafting of other documents that served as the 
foundation for the future government, laws and basic rights and 
freedoms of the citizens of the United States, including the Virginia 
Declaration of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and the United 
States Bill of Rights.
  This document continues to serve as a cornerstone for the foundation 
of the United States of America and its role as the beacon of liberty 
and justice for many persons across the globe who yearn and struggle to 
achieve the basic human desire to be free.
  The Fairfax Resolves Chapter has also been instrumental in fostering 
a spirit of honor and civic responsibility in the next generation. The 
chapter's dedication to educating others about our rich history and the 
importance of active citizenship is truly commendable. By instilling a 
sense of duty and pride in our collective heritage, they have 
contributed to the growth and development of responsible and engaged 
citizens.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating each 
member of the Fairfax Resolves Chapter of the Virginia Sons of the 
American Revolution as they continue the important work of honoring the 
heroes of the American Revolution in years to come. I express my deep 
appreciation to the Fairfax Resolves Chapter for their vital role in 
promoting unity and fostering a strong sense of community within our 
district.

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