What unites the English-speaking peoples is not mere political expediency or immediate economic interests. No, what links us is far more fundamental than either of those things, important as they may be. For we share a hallowed moral ground.
We take seriously the sanctity of the individual; we share a common tradition of religious toleration; we are committed to democracy and representative government; and we are resolved to uphold and spread the rule of law.
In short, we believe, as Thomas Jefferson put it, “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” It is this moral commitment, above all else, that has made us, and will continue to make us, distinctive.
It is, of course, the English language itself that makes it possible for us to stand together and pledge ourselves to those principles we deem permanent.
For English is a language soaked in values; it is the language of liberty. It enables us to share those ideals of justice and fairness that lie at the heart of our political philosophy.
Our common tongue allows us to come together in civic purpose; and it enables us to live together peaceably. For as Locke rightly said, language is “the great instrument and common type of society”.
I want to remind Londoners that our city is—and always will be—a place for everyone.
We’ll continue to celebrate London as the diverse, open and welcoming city it is.
Some of our enthusiastic volunteers were back @CrichTramway over the weekend overseeing Liverpool 869 getting a repaint, Leeds 345 in for body repair and repaint and Blackpool 298 coming on nicely in the workshop! Thank you to you all for your amazing commitment and time. Photos courtesy of Peter Whiteley. #nationaltramwaymuseum #crichtramwaymuseum #crichtramwayvillage #restoration #workshop #volunteering