Constitution Day
Thursday, September 17, 2009 is Constitution Day, which according to the official Constitution Day website, is the day for us to “Celebrate the Birthday of Our Government!”
Please join us to hear Dr. Stephen McDougal (political science) speak on “The Constitution of 1787: Law v.Politics.” Learn more about how the framers crafted the Constitution of 1787 and the implications for national politics today. Refreshements will be served.
- Thursday, September 17, 2009
- 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
- Ward Room, Cartwright Center
Public Welcome!
Background
President George W. Bush signed a bill on December 8th, 2004 which designates every September 17th as Constitution Day. Many organizations will be participating in constitutional education programs on this day. Click here for a pdf version of the Constitution.
The United States Constitution is the oldest written national constitution currently in effect and was signed by 39 of the 55 Founding Fathers on September 17th, 1787. It set up the U.S. government and adopted the concept of checks and balances by developing three components – Congress, the President, and the Courts. It adapts to our changing society through the addition of amendments. The first 10 amendments are referred to as the “Bill of Rights.”
Want to learn more? Here are some great sites.
- The National Archives site allows visitors to download all or parts of the Constitution.
- The American Ad Council’s public interest site regarding the Constitution and U.S. History
- New York Times Constitution Day Planning Guide
If you’d like to know more about the creation of Constitution Day and other ways that colleges and universities are celebrating the day, click here for a pdf report from NASPA.