Constitution Day: U.S. Constitution Turns 223
Although "Constitution Day and Citizenship Day" has only been in existence since 2004, the United States Constitution has been around for 223 years, so let's celebrate! Today, September 17, is Constitution Day. Constitution Day, not to be confused with 4th of July, does enjoy some educational perks.
According to the Law Library of Congress, Constitution Day marks the anniversary of a bill by Senator Robert Byrd requiring schools and federal agencies to teach students and employees about the Constitution. The bill, entitled "Constitution and Citizenship Day," requires the head of every federal agency to, "provide each employee with educational and training materials concerning the Constitution."
Why September 17? Because that was the date when all twelve delegations approved the Constitution in 1787. The Constitution, which provides Americans with popular rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of association is a ever-evolving document. New spins on old rights are constantly testing the limits and meaning of the Constitution, with courts left to decide whether or not a certain constitutional protection applies. (Pick your favorite amendment here)
According to Article VI, the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. The original version o the Constitution is located in the National Archives in Washington D.C. Although the language may seem a bit antiquated, the meaning behind the carefully crafted words in the Constitution contain the many rights and privileges that American citizens have enjoyed for the past 223 years. So take a little time to educate yourself and appreciate the Constitution today.
Related Resources:
- Who Do We Have To Thank For Constitution Day? (Washington Examiner)
- What Type of Rights Does the U.S. Constitution Afford Employees (FindLaw)
- Constitution of the United States (FindLaw's LawBrain)