Just as the menacing storm clouds seemingly grow darker over our nation by the day, the morning of April 10th appeared like so many recent days in Pennsylvania: storm clouds with the threat of rain. Convention of States supporters from all over the Commonwealth anxiously observed an ominous overcast sky forming above the Pennsylvania Capitol Building. It was ‘Surge’ Day. Just outside the Capitol Building, Convention of States leaders and supporters were making final rally preparations before entering the Capitol to urge legislators to call for an Article V convention.
Weeks of organization, planning, and preparation from countless volunteers had been poured into this event. National COS leaders Rita Peters and Michael Farris had arrived to speak and meet legislators and grassroots supporters. Sound systems, handouts, registration tables, and 70+ COS supporters were all at the mercy of the menacing Pennsylvania climate.
But as the COS ‘Surge’ rally began, with the beautiful golden Capitol Rotunda dome looming overhead, rays of hope broke through, and the storm clouds faded away. Speakers gave words of encouragement, resolve, and spirit to the dedicated group of COS supporters who had traveled hours to make their passionate pleas to legislators. State Grassroots Coordinator Matt Zale, Western Regional Captain Chet Jack, and National Legislative Liaison Rita Peters all gave powerful & personal testimony to the cause of self-governance. COS Senate Primary Sponsor Chris Dush also gave a passionate speech outlining the dangers of letting the status quo continue and how critical an Article V Convention is to check tyranny.
COS supporters then entered the Capitol and stopped at the offices of all 253 House & Senate Members, meeting with members and staffers and distributing promotional informational packets. In addition, several promising closed-door meetings occurred with key Legislators in both the House & Senate, including expert testimony by Michael Farris. Every hall, office, and level of the PA Capitol was filled with COS supporters all morning.
All in all, it was a great day of hope & promise in PA. While the storm clouds of our lives, communities, and nation will continue to pass overhead, it’s important to recognize the rays of hope that inevitably break through. This year’s Surge at the Capitol was a reminder that courage and resolve can overcome fear and despair, even in these troubling times.
With this reassurance, whether or not you were able to attend the Surge, you can still make your voice heard by urging your legislators to support the Convention of States Resolution. Take a moment to contact your legislator when you sign the petition below. We must maintain this momentum with persistence and fortitude.
