The Manrilla Blog | Life. Art. Religion. Culture.

In the past I have taken a reserved interest in our nation’s history. Some of that is probably due to issues I have with its and our (meaning people of color) history with it. But I was invited to take part of an interfaith reading of the Constitution for Consitution Day. America Reads the Constitution was a public reading of the Constitution by area religious leaders, celebrating religious freedom in our founding document. Imam Anwar of IMB and several other members were invited as well from the Muslim community. I read Amendment I, II and III (web movie [1mb]).

Amendement I: Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Amemdement II: Right to Bear Arms

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

Amendment III: Quartering of Soldiers

No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

It was really great to see people from many different faiths and backgrounds partaking freely in the event. My hope is that I will see Muslims more actively seeking to be involved in American public square. Below are a few shots. Special thanks to Titus and Maureen, who made the trip up to Philly from Durham just for this event. Your support is much appreciated. Additional thanks to Titus and Denise for lending a hand with a few of the photos. I’ll post some short video recaps in the future. Enjoy.

The Patriot and the Priest

Priest

Sisters

Mother Divine

Jewish man, Baha’i Woman

Jewish man

Group Shot 1 © 2006 Titus Heagins

Cardinal © 2006 Titus Heagins

Group Shot 2 © 2006 Titus Heagins

Imam Anwar Muhaimin Waiting To Speak

Singing the National Anthem

Seikh man

Contemplation

Imam Anwar Muhaimin Reads the Constitution

Imam Anwar Muhaimin

Yours Truly Waiting To Read 1 © 2006 Titus Heagins

Priest Waits to Read © 2006 Titus Heagins

Yours Truly Waiting To Read 2 © 2006 Titus Heagins

Yours Truly Reads Amendments I, II and III. © 2006 Titus Heagins

Marc Manley Reads the Constitution © 2006 Denise Botcheos