DNC Chair Tom Perez released the following statement:

“Almost 250 years ago, our democracy was born in revolution by little more than words on parchment and the courage of those who dared to write them. Their declaration was heard around the world. But while it promised that all men were created equal, it only marked the beginning of the struggle for equality. America won freedom, but Black lives did not; America won independence, but women did not; America celebrated liberty, but LGBTQ+ Americans did not. The next two and a half centuries would see generations of brave Americans force this nation to confront its founding sins and live up to its founding values. Slaves would demand freedom, women would demand suffrage, LGBTQ+ Americans would demand equality, immigrants would demand opportunity, workers would demand fairness, people with disabilities would demand dignity, people of all faiths would demand liberty, Black Americans would demand that our country recognize the worth and matter of their lives, and those in uniform would defend America and our values around the world.

“We have come a long way since our founders met in Philadelphia to start this grand experiment. But we still have a long way to go. In spite of our progress, the current president is hell-bent on dragging America backward. Donald Trump’s entire administration is premised on a longing for an unjust and unequal past. And his failure of leadership through this crisis has cost people their jobs, their savings, and even their lives. Our economy has plunged into a recession and our allies have lost faith in American leadership. And the American people are hungry for change.

“The best way to celebrate our nation’s founding is to continue the fight to expand its promise of justice, equality, and opportunity for all. America’s greatness does not come from our past but from our constant pursuit of a better future. And in November, voters will carry on that pursuit by electing Joe Biden as the next president of the United States.”