Local residents will soon have a special place to reflect on our nation's core values of "liberty and justice for all" - thanks to a partnership with the City of Monroe, Union County, and Foundation Forward, Inc. On Flag Day, Friday, June 14, these organizations will unveil a collection of displays of life-size replicas of our country's founding documents, as well as the core documents that ensured civil rights for women and minorities in our country. 

The "Charters of Freedom" are etched bronze replicas of our country's founding documents including: 

• the Declaration of Independence; 
• the United States Constitution;
• the Bill of Rights; and
• Civil Rights Amendments 13, 14, 15, 19, and 24. 

These displays will provide a place where residents can view the documents close to home because not everyone has the ability to visit the original founding documents displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

“This patriotic display will provide residents and visitors the unique opportunity to learn about the country’s founding documents and will serve to promote the preservation of American history for many years to come,” said Mark Watson, Monroe City Manager.

The City of Monroe and Union County will host a public event to unveil the "Charters of Freedom" installation at Main Street Plaza. Join us on Friday, June 14, at 11 a.m. at Main Street Plaza, 500 N. Main Street, in downtown Monroe.

"We appreciate the partnership of all involved to offer the opportunity for our residents and visitors to engage with these iconic documents that foster a deeper understanding of the principles of our nation and reflect on the freedoms and rights we share," said Brian Matthews, Union County Manager.

The Charters of Freedom installation in Union County is the 58th in the country and 35th in North Carolina. The setting is paid for by the nonprofit Foundation Forward, Inc. and generous donors. Foundation Forward, Inc. was formed in 2013 by Founders Vance and Mary Jo Patterson who were inspired to bring the experience of the National Archives display in Washington, D.C. to communities across the nation. 

“Imagine if you will school teachers bringing their 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classes to their Charters of Freedom for annual field trips to learn a little about our founding fathers, the history surrounding the beginning of our country, and how the government is meant to serve and protect We The People,” said Vance Patterson.

A Donors Pedestal has been erected next to the Charters of Freedom setting, and a Field of Honor with Legacy Pavers will be installed in front of the U.S. Constitution for Union County residents to honor loved ones or to recognize active-duty military or veterans, first responders, businesses, or organizations. These can be purchased from Foundation Forward for a tax-deductible donation when you visit www.chartersoffreedom.com or call (828) 522-1400.

About Foundation Forward, Inc.

Based in Valdese, N.C., Foundation Forward, Inc. is an educational nonprofit that installs life-size replicas of our country's "Charters of Freedom" in communities across America. All "Charters of Freedom" settings are open 24/7 to the public and provide a location for communities to reflect on our great country and the men and women who have fought to protect our freedoms.