Bill Byrd - "His Words Took Flight" Jefferson's place in American and world history

Bill Byrd, Vice President of Operations at The Virginia Council, delivered a passionate and engaging presentation at the "Un-Canceling Jefferson" event on May 20, 2025, at the historic Hanover Tavern in Hanover County, Virginia. With over 40 years of experience as a journalist, political analyst, and activist in Virginia’s political landscape, Byrd brought a unique perspective to defending Thomas Jefferson’s legacy. His deep commitment to preserving the Founding Fathers’ reputations and Virginia’s historical heritage shone through, making his talk a compelling blend of historical insight and fervent advocacy for Jefferson’s enduring principles.

Byrd’s presentation celebrated Thomas Jefferson as the “Author of America” and the “father of all American thought,” focusing on his revolutionary contributions to the Declaration of Independence and the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. He robustly countered accusations of Jefferson’s atheism, emphasizing his Judeo-Christian roots, exemplified by his inspiration from Leviticus 25:10, and highlighted how Jefferson’s ideas influenced modern leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. Byrd warned that those attacking Jefferson’s legacy oppose freedom and individuality, using a powerful metaphor of burning scrolls and soaring letters to assert that Jefferson’s ideas will prevail.

This presentation is a must-watch for anyone passionate about American history and the values that define it. Byrd’s heartfelt delivery, enriched with historical depth and contemporary relevance, invites viewers to rediscover Jefferson’s pivotal role in shaping liberty, equality, and religious freedom. His call to action, urging audiences to stand as “Jeffersonians” in defense of these ideals, makes this talk an inspiring exploration of why Jefferson remains indispensable today.