.png)
Every September 17th, Americans observe Constitution Day, marking the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. However, despite its foundational importance, Constitution Day is not celebrated as a national holiday. It's time we change that. By making Constitution Day a national holiday, we would take a powerful step toward restoring our collective understanding of and reverence for the document that defines our liberties and our government.
In 2004, Congress passed the federal mandate under Public Law 108-447, which requires all publicly funded educational institutions to provide educational programming about the Constitution on September 17th. While this is a critical step in ensuring that young Americans learn about the Constitution, it remains underutilized. Constitution Day is often overlooked in schools and communities, with only sporadic engagement in the mandated activities. A national holiday would give this mandate the attention it deserves and inspire more robust observance.
The 917 Society: Championing Constitution Day in Classrooms
Organizations like The 917 Society are stepping up to fill this gap, working tirelessly to make sure students are exposed to the Constitution's rich history and its relevance today. The 917 Society, a nonpartisan nonprofit, has taken up the mantle to honor Constitution Day by providing every 8th-grade student across the nation with a free pocket Constitution. This initiative is a powerful way to engage the next generation and help them understand the importance of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
Through partnerships with schools, educators, and community leaders, The 917 Society promotes Constitution literacy and civic engagement. Their work not only aligns with the federal mandate but also extends far beyond, with events and programs that highlight the enduring significance of the Constitution in modern life.
Why a National Holiday?
While the federal mandate helps ensure some level of recognition in schools, a national holiday dedicated to the Constitution would elevate this observance to a new level. It would remind every citizen—not just students—of the responsibilities we share to preserve and defend this cherished document. Moreover, it would create opportunities for more widespread civic education and public reflection on the rights and freedoms guaranteed to all Americans.
At a time when civic literacy is at an all-time low, a Constitution Day holiday could be used to promote educational programs and public ceremonies to celebrate the brilliance of our Founders’ work. Schools could dedicate lessons to the Constitution’s creation, its amendments, and its enduring influence. Communities could hold events that foster discussion on the principles of limited government, federalism, and individual liberty.
Several other countries, such as South Korea, India, and Mexico, already recognize their constitutions with national holidays. If these nations can celebrate the foundation of their governance, surely the United States—the pioneer of constitutional democracy—should do the same.
Preserving Our Freedoms in an Age of Discontent
Critics might argue that we already have too many holidays, but the truth is, we could never have enough reminders of the values that make this nation exceptional. At a time when individual freedoms are under increasing scrutiny and government overreach is on the rise, a national Constitution Day holiday would help reaffirm the need for vigilance in safeguarding our liberty.
Our Founding Fathers understood that the government’s power should be limited, and the people’s rights should be protected above all else. Constitution Day as a national holiday would be an annual reaffirmation of those ideals, encouraging every citizen to take stock of their freedoms and to be proactive in defending them against encroachment.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Our history is filled with moments of profound challenge, where our adherence to constitutional principles has guided us through. Abraham Lincoln invoked the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution in his fight to preserve the Union. Civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. leaned on the promise of constitutional equality in their push for justice. By making Constitution Day a national holiday, we can help inspire future generations to carry forward the same dedication to freedom and equality.
Organizations like The 917 Society understand that the future of our republic depends on the next generation understanding the Constitution. By providing free Constitutions to 8th graders, they are giving young Americans the tools they need to protect and appreciate the rights and freedoms enshrined in this essential document. To learn more visit www.917society.org
It’s time for America to elevate Constitution Day to its rightful place as a national holiday. Such a day would not only honor the legacy of our Founders but also renew our commitment to the values of freedom and self-governance that the Constitution enshrines.
#ConstitutionDay #CivicEducation #NationalHoliday #Freedom #FoundingFathers #AmericanHistory #Liberty #917Society #ConstitutionalRights #LimitedGovernment
Comments