(TheConservativeTimes.org) – In a resounding victory for American patriots, the U.S. House of Representatives has finally passed a bill officially designating the majestic bald eagle as our national bird.
This long-overdue recognition cements the eagle’s status as a powerful symbol of freedom, strength and independence that true Americans have cherished for centuries.
The bill passed Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support. The House vote marks the end of a legislative journey that began in the Senate.
Senator Amy Klobuchar introduced the bill, which passed by voice vote in the House after receiving united consent in the Senate on July 29.
While many Americans already believed the bald eagle to be the official national bird, its status was surprisingly unofficial until now.
The eagle has graced the national seal since 1782 and appears on several state flags and seals, but this legislation finally gives it the formal recognition it deserves in U.S. law.
Rep. Russell Fry emphasized the bald eagle’s significance: “The bald has long been associated with and a symbol of the United States…The bald eagle appears on the flags and insignia of our military, on passports and currency.”
Sen. Tina Smith added, “The bald eagle has been a universally recognizable symbol of patriotism in this country for centuries.”
The bill highlights the bald eagle as a symbol unique to North America, embodying the very essence of American exceptionalism.
It is a fitting choice for a nation that stands apart in its commitment to liberty and self-determination.
The eagle’s significance extends beyond politics. As Fry notes, “The bald eagle is also important to Native American tribes across the United States. It plays a key role in sacred belief systems and traditions, stories, ceremonies, and insignias.”
This legislative win is a testament to the power of grassroots efforts. Minnesota “eaglevangelist” Preston Cook spearheaded the campaign to officially recognize the bald eagle.
Cook’s passion for eagles saw him amass a collection of over 40,000 eagle-related items, now housed in the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota.
“I saw a movie called ‘A Thousand Clowns’ in 1966 and there was one line in the movie, ‘You can’t have too many eagles,'” Cook said.
“I walked out of the theater and I said that might be an interesting thing to collect,” he continued.
The bill’s passage is a refreshing reminder that even in these divisive times, Americans can still unite around shared symbols and values.
It is worth noting that this legislation requires no taxpayer funding, proving that meaningful change does not always come at a cost to hardworking Americans.
Copyright 2024, TheConservativeTimes.org