The 250th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence is coming up next year. For many people, this day means nothing more than fireworks and hotdogs, which is completely OK. For others, it means planning entire national and citywide events to commemorate. 

I recently attended a talk by John Morton, Ph.D., professor and postdoctoral fellow of history, on the proposed plans for the upcoming celebrations and what museums in the area are doing. Both in this talk and in his America in Age of Revolutions class, we’ve discussed the ever-changing plans and how nothing is really set in stone. However, with almost every discussion, we’ve found ways we can get involved and help with these celebrations. 

As St. Joe’s students, we have a unique opportunity. Dr. Morton, with some input from other history professors, outlined how St. Joe’s itself is connected to America’s 250th. He discussed how the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, which St. Joe’s acquired in its June 2022 merger with the University of the Sciences, was originally located in Carpenters’ Hall, where the First Continental Congress was held. 

I had no idea this was part of our school’s history until Dr. Morton’s talk, and I’m sure many other students are in the same situation. As students of the school, we have a responsibility to learn about its unique history and make it known. 

What can we do? Well, that’s up to you. Clear from recent events, celebrations of America’s 250th are being played by ear. I have no doubt St. Joe’s will take this opportunity to make our school’s presence in history known, but I’m sure they’ll need some help. 

Talk to your professors — encourage them to make this part of their classes. Involve yourself through volunteer opportunities. Don’t see what you want to do? Work with other students to get it done. 

America’s 250th is going to be a great opportunity to gain knowledge about our history, promote our school and just have some fun. We can’t let it pass by.