"So I said moments ago, welcome, but I could have said welcome back to what was our original House chamber for a decade. What they did here was truly remarkable. The 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence were signing their death warrants. After all, they knew what they faced had they not succeeded. But in signing that declaration, in voting for independence, in creating the United States of America, they did something that is one of the most significant events, I believe, in not just our nation's history, but in human history. They gave birth, were finally recognized, the rights we all have, the rights not just of one people, but the rights of all people. Now I know there are some in our society today who might have real questions and doubts about where we are as a country. Those doubts, those questions, are not new to our time. In fact, 50 years ago, President Ford was right here in Philadelphia at Independence Hall and Congress Hall to celebrate what was then the nation's bicentennial. I'm going to quote his words because while he was speaking in 1976, I believe they speak to us today. It is fitting that we ask ourselves hard questions, even on a glorious day like today. Are the institutions under which we live, are they working the way they should? Are the foundations laid in 1776 strong enough and sound enough to resist the tremors of our times? Are our God-given rights secure, our hard-won liberties protected? The very fact that we can ask these questions, that we can freely examine and criticize our society, is cause for confidence itself. Many of the voices raised in doubt centuries ago served to strengthen and improve the decisions finally made. The American adventure is a continuing process. As one milestone is passed, another is sited. As we achieve one goal, we raise our sights. And so, my dear colleagues, on this special occasion, as I close, it is my solemn wish that we, members of Congress, rededicate ourselves to the great work of this country and the noble purpose of our independence."