Rachel Nordenhök

Constitution Week is celebrated annually from Sept. 17-23, commemorating the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned Congress in 1955, and it was signed into public law in by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. This week serves as a reminder of the importance of the Constitution in shaping American government and encourages citizens to reflect on their rights and responsibilities.

Understanding the Constitution is essential for every citizen as it lays the foundation for our rights and freedoms. It empowers us to recognize our liberties and responsibilities within this society. By knowing the Constitution, people can engage more effectively in civic discussions and advocate for their rights. Ultimately, it fosters a more informed and active citizenry, which is vital for the health our country.

There are many opportunities to learn the Constitution, one way is to just read it! It’s not very long, and a great way to start. There are many classes available online where you can explore the concept of equality and justice embedded in the Constitution, as well as the events surrounding that historical event during that time.

Constitution Week is a great time to honor the legacy of our forefathers and the Constitutional Republic they established. They wanted to pass down to us a form of government that would last, as they were wary of a government that would become too strong or powerful. At the same time they didn’t want the people to have too much power, and protect against too much democracy.

They collectively understood some key concepts about government including popular sovereignty or consent of the people, and restricting a government’s power to protect individual rights and liberties. They were in favor of republicanism, where citizens are represented by elected officials. They wanted to see power shared between the national and state governments, and have a separation of powers while each branch could check, or limit the power of other branches.

There have been 27 amendments to the Constitution. The first ten are known as the Bill of Rights. Those were ratified in 1791. There you can explore your personal rights and freedoms, and truly understand what it means to be an American.

Embrace the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the Constitution. Celebrate the document that continues to safeguard the nation’s values and freedoms to this day, and for generations to come.