The Pennsylvania House of Representatives convened on September 9 for a historic special session at Philadelphia’s Congress Hall, the nation’s first capitol building, to commemorate the 250th anniversaries of the Declaration of Independence and the Pennsylvania Constitution.

Lawmakers chose the date because on September 9, 1776, the Continental Congress officially changed the name of the newly formed nation from the “United Colonies” to the “United States of America.” It was only the fifth time since 1926, and the first time in 39 years, that the House met at Congress Hall.

During the session, legislators adopted resolutions honoring both founding documents and reflected on the nation’s progress over the past 250 years. Speakers emphasized unity and inclusion, stressing that the phrase “We the People” must represent all Americans.

House Speaker Joanna McClinton, the first woman and only the second Black person to lead the Pennsylvania House, spoke about the significance of presiding over a session in the same place where the nation’s early leaders once met.

Latino Caucus highlights representation and civic engagement

Members of the Pennsylvania House Latino Caucus described the event as both a celebration of history and a reminder of the work that remains ahead.

Rep. Manuel Guzmán Jr. said he was proud to represent Latinos and his community at a site where people like him were absent 250 years ago. He expressed hope that future generations will see even greater Latino political representation, including a Latino president, and encouraged Hispanic voters to exercise their electoral power.

Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, chair of the Latino Caucus, was among the event’s featured speakers. Her remarks, which included several phrases in Spanish, received a standing ovation from fellow Democrats. She reflected on her late father, expressed pride in her immigrant roots, and urged Latinos to continue shaping the nation’s future.

“Latinos and Hispanics have been part of the past 250 years and will continue to be part of the next 250 years,” Cepeda-Freytiz said, calling for continued efforts to ensure dignity, respect and recognition for the Latino community.

Rep. Danilo Burgos also spoke about the significance of the occasion, saying he was proud to represent North Philadelphia’s Latino community. While celebrating the nation’s founding, he emphasized the need to continue fighting for equality and opportunity for all Americans.

Inspiring the next generation

The House partnered with America250PA to bring more than 80 students from across Pennsylvania to the event as part of a civic education initiative.

Rep. José Giral attended with a student participant and described the program as an opportunity to pass the torch to the next generation. He noted the historic importance of seeing Latino lawmakers inside a building where no Latinos held such roles 250 years ago.

Rep. Ana Tiburcio attended alongside her 17-year-old daughter, who was invited as part of the student program. Tiburcio said the experience represented an important legacy for future generations and encouraged Latinos to continue making history through public service, civic engagement and hard work.

Throughout the evening, lawmakers reflected on how far the nation has come while acknowledging the challenges that remain. For Speaker McClinton, the historic gathering was not only about honoring the past, but also about helping build “a stronger future for everyone.”