AFA Swamp Fox: A Voice for America250

AFA Swamp Fox Chapter 298 Vice President Cheryl R. Moye joined a group a citizens July 8 who gathered on the west lawn of the Sumter, S.C., courthouse and across the globe to read aloud the words that forever changed the course of freedom—the Declaration of Independence.

For Moye, the occasion signified far more than reading a historic document. It is a deeply personal moment of gratitude, service, and purpose.

Moye was selected as one of 10 readers in the Team Sumter-Shaw community during the first-ever worldwide reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Although the Declaration contains only 1,337 words, its message has inspired nearly 250 years of courage, liberty, justice, equality, and the continuing pursuit of a more perfect union.

At 6 p.m. EDT, Moye’s voice joined thousands of others participating at more than 730 locations throughout all 50 states, U.S. territories, numerous countries, and every one of the world’s seven continents. Together, they spoke the same historic words in a powerful demonstration that the principles declared in 1776 and that continue to inspire people around the world today.

Moye’s participation carries special significance because she proudly represented AFA, of which she is a lifetime member, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)—two organizations whose missions have shaped her decades of service. While each serves a distinct purpose, both share a common humanitarian dedication to leadership, education, opportunity, public service, and strengthening our nation.

Representing AFA reminds her of the generations of Airmen, Guardians, veterans, and military families whose sacrifices have safeguarded the freedoms articulated in the Declaration of Independence. Their commitment ensures that future generations continue to enjoy the blessings of liberty and self-government.

Standing at the intersection of these two organizations was especially meaningful for Moye. Service to country and the pursuit of civil rights are not competing ideals. They reinforce one another. Together they help build stronger communities, strengthen our democracy, and ensure that freedom is both protected and accessible to all.

Earlier this year, Moye joined a Women’s History Month webinar—hosted by the NAACP Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committee—featuring the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, USAF (Ret.), alongside many other distinguished Total Force leaders. The discussion reinforced the importance of leadership, mentorship, military service, and expanding opportunities for future generations.

As the second reader, focusing on the social compact, she recognizes that every participant contributes to something much larger than themselves. Together, our voices symbolize the enduring power of civic engagement, respectful dialogue, and our shared responsibility to preserve the freedoms we have inherited while continuing to expand opportunity for generations yet to come. Moye said, “This worldwide ‘We the People’ celebration is far more than a ceremonial reading. It is an affirmation of faith in America’s founding ideals, a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect them, and a recommitment to ensuring that liberty, justice, equality, and opportunity continue to guide our nation.”