The idea of a state THOMAS PAINE DAY originated in 1997 with Sherwood Smith of Fredericksburg, Virginia, who asked his state legislators to proclaim January 29th, Paine's birthday, as an annual Thomas Paine Day, which they did. Smith on meeting Robert Walsh, of Vero Beach, Florida, through the internet, suggested he try in Florida, and in 1998 Florida also approved an annual Thomas Paine Day resolution.
Three years later, all 50 states had been contacted. Twenty two states approved proclamations, from the governor, and eight passed resolutions by the legislature. As of July 2006, nine states, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont have approved resolutions. Two, Connecticut and New Jersey, are waiting approval in 2007. For various reasons, seven states declined. They are: Colorado, Hawaii, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania. If your state isn't listed yet, we want it! In 2008, we plan to increase the number of states markedly, in preparation for the World Paine Year 2009, the 200th anniversary year of the death of Paine.
A resolution originates when a resident makes a request to his/her state legislator. The problem is, we do not have a member or know someone in EVERY state, to do it. However YOU, the resident reading this, can be that person and can ask if you will. Contact your representative to iniate our request, then let TPF know so we can provide documentation.
THAT'S ALL YOU HAVE TO DO! * * * * IT TAKES 10 MINUTES.
P.S. The best chance to reach legislators is usually between mid-October to mid-January, depending on your state.
NOTE: Now, 232 years after the independence and founding of our country, one of the two men most directly responsible needs five minutes from you, the reader!
Until you call your legislators, TPF can do nothing. After you do, advise TPF and we will contact them.
IT'S YOUR MOVE NOW! * * Please do it! * * Thank you for your trouble.
WHEREAS, Thomas Paine, a leader of the American Revolution, one of the founding fathers, peer of Washington, Madison, Franklin and Jefferson, was also one of the most brilliant political philosophers of his time; and
WHEREAS, Thomas Paine crystallized the decision of the colonies for independence with his work, Common Sense; and
WHEREAS, Thomas Paine supported the Revolution through personal service, his fortune and his inspirational The American Crisis papers; and
WHEREAS, Thomas Paine was the first to promote universal and equal education for boys and girls, equality for women, religious freedom and to suggest an alliance of nations to be neutral in wars between any two nations; and
WHEREAS, his life and his work continue to inspire those who seek liberty and democracy all over the world; NOW THEREFORE, be it
RESOLVED, by the _______ Legislature, that January 29th 200_ be designated as the First Annual "Thomas Paine Day" in [state], in honor of his indelible contributions to our liberty; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, that the Legislature urge the citizens of [state] to take note of this day named in honor of Thomas Paine and his accompliushments.