In 1790, George Washington wrote a beautiful letter, the original is on view at the Museum, about religious freedom to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, RI. In this letter, he vows that “our Government gives to bigotry no sanction to persecution, no assistance.” And, quoting the Hebrew Bible, also writes, “every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid.”
These promises, made to the Jewish community more than 200 years ago, underscore the ideals of pluralism on which this nation was founded and are part of the fabric of our Museum. Washington’s words remind us that we must be vigilant: the freedoms to which all Americans aspire must not be taken for granted and we must constantly work to attain and sustain the freedoms defined in these founding principles.
May we strive to make Washington’s vow a reality in our own time. We invite you to show your support on social media with #ToBigotryNoSanction.
Additional Museum Resources about Religious Freedom
To Bigotry No Sanction: George Washington & Religious Freedom
June 29 - September 30, 2012
Past exhibition To Bigotry No Sanction: George Washington and Religious Freedom explores the faith and freedom in early America and features the historic correspondence between the nation's first president and the Jewish community of Newport, Rhode Island. A stunning constellation of artifacts tells this story about the foundation of religious liberty - a story with Philadelphia roots and national relevance. To learn learn more about this special exhibition and the George Washington letter, visit the interactive letter
Open Book: Discovering American Jewish History Through Objects
Based on material culture from the Museum’s collection, the lessons in this national curriculum challenge students to exercise critical thinking and inquiry-based learning skills while exploring the American Jewish experience. In the spirit of traditional Talmudic study, Open Book invites students to approach the study of history in unexpected ways and connect what they learn to their own ideas, experiences, and passions. This open-ended process of discussion and discovery empowers students to see themselves in the larger story of American Jewish life and inspire a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.
Free lessons are available for download here. .jpg "Religious Liberty Talmud Page")
Religious Liberty
Religious Liberty, by sculptor Moses Jacob Ezekiel, is an allegorical work in which each figure symbolizes an abstract concept. The main figure represents liberty, and she holds her right arm protectively over a young person who represents religious faith – he reaches toward the heavens and holds a burning lamp in his hands. An eagle at the base of the statue crushes a serpent and looks to the horizon, suggesting America’s continuing struggle against intolerance. The sculpture is cited outside of the Museum on the corner of 5th and Market Streets. To learn more about the sculpture, visit Religious Liberty.
Walking Tour
Visit sites with connection to To Bigotry No Sanction exhibition, all right here, in historic Philadelphia.
To use the walking tour with Google Maps, click here
For a printable map, click here.