Madison, WI – Today, The Wisconsin State Assembly passed a resolution put forward by State Representative Paul Tittl (R-Manitowoc) declaring June 12th as Ronald Reagan Freedom Day in Wisconsin.
“That’s the day Ronald Reagan appeared in front of the Berlin Wall and spoke the words no wall could block,” said Rep. Tittl. “His words echoed throughout the world. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbchev, tear down this wall.”
Just two years later, on November 9th, 1989, the head of the East German Communist Party announced that citizens of the German Democratic Republic could cross the border whenever they pleased.
“Ecstatic crowds swarmed the wall,” said Rep. Tittl. “Some crossed freely into West Berlin while others hammered and chipped away at the wall.”
“The resolution commemorates that magnificent event and those courageous words,” said Tittl, “and it’s fitting that we have passed this resolution so close to the anniversary of his passing on June 5, 2004.
“My hope is that this resolution might help us to remember this event so we never take our freedom for granted,” said Rep. Tittl.
The 25th Assembly District includes portions of Calumet and Manitowoc Counties.