independence hall: Philadelphia Metropolis

My Declaration of Independence

Best of VoxPop» It is no coincidence that I now live only a few blocks from Independence Hall. When I was a toddler, I was determined to do everything by myself, so my grandfather dubbed me the Declaration of Independence. The name still suits me. To appreciate this, you need to know that I am legally blind. That means that I have minimal sight in one eye and none in the other, and no depth perception. While I can get around without the assistance of either a guide dog or a white cane, I can't read street signs or facial expressions, and I hold printed matter inches from my eyes to read it. You will be relieved to learn that the state of Pennsylvania, in its wisdom, will not grant me a driver's license. (Comments)

Los Mexicanos de Filadelfia Part Two: Work, Family and Fear

For Philadelphia's growing Mexican community, life is defined by work, family and fear. The Mexicans are hard workers say those who know them and hire them. Young men will sometimes work two jobs, the better to save money for the oft-stated (but often unrealized) goal of returning home. One estimate is that 80 percent of the city's Mexicans work in the restaurant or food trade. (Comments)

Wired to Be a Single Mother

By Robin L. Jessie-Green» Maybe I went about this family life and motherhood business the wrong way? I only say this because quite honestly, I really enjoy the freedom of being recently separated. I know it's not what people would expect a financially challenged mother of five to say, but they're not the ones living this life. Sure, there are numerous responsibilities, and I'm the one who tackles them on my own. But I have a secret... I like it this way. (Comments)

John F. Kennedy on Religion and the Presidency

Full text of John F. Kennedy's speech delivered  Sept. 12, 1960, to the Greater Houston Ministerial Association, a group of Protestant ministers.      Rev. Meza, Rev. Reck, I'm grateful for your generous invitation to speak my views. While the so-called... (Comments)

Santorum's Houston Speech

Full text of an speech given by the former Senator of Pennsylvania, the Honorable Rick Santorum on Thursday, September 9, 2010, at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas.   Revive the Role of Faith in the Public Square  ... (Comments)