WASHINGTON, D.C. - Next year will mark our nation’s 250th independence anniversary. To celebrate that historic year, some members of congress are hoping to have a joint session in the birthplace of our nation. 

The city of Philadelphia was founded in the late 17th century. It was known as our nation’s birthplace for the critical role it played in the creation of the United States of America. It later became the Capital of the United States from 1790-1800. It was at Independence Hall in Philadelphia where the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Members of the 13 colonies declared independence from the British. Since then, our country has gone through a wave of change. From economic highs and lows, the industrial boom, wars and social movements.  

“Our country should be very proud of where we are and the fact there is no other place in the world like this place,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R- PA). “The rest of the world looks at us very envious and we should be celebrating it.” 

Next July 4th marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. A handful of members like Rep. Kelly are supporting legislation to hold a joint session of where it all began: the Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia.  

“This is not a political thing at all,” said Rep. Kelly. “This is about America. This is about the United States of America. The founding, the founding fathers would celebrate that.” 

Ever since the US Capital moved from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. in 1800, Congress has convened outside of D.C. only twice. The first was at Independence Hall in 1987 to honor the bicentennial of the constitution. The second was in 2002 at the Federal Hall in New York City, New York to remember the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001 attacks.  

Kelly said holding a joint session in Philadelphia will honor a huge part of our history.  

“The beginning, when it was the hardest time to get established, it started in Philadelphia,” said Rep. Kelly. “Pennsylvania should be very proud of that. Not boastful, proud.”