Constitution Week brings founding ideals into today’s conversations

Constitution Week is observed nationwide each year from Sept. 17 - 23 to mark the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The observance begins with Constitution Day on Sept. 17, when delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia agreed on a framework that replaced the Articles of Confederation and created a stronger federal government. Ratified in 1788, the Constitution established three coequal branches - executive, legislative and judicial - and built in a system of checks and balances that continues to guide American democracy.

Just a few years later, in 1791, the first 10 amendments were added as the Bill of Rights. These amendments guaranteed core protections such as freedom of speech, religion and the press, the right to bear arms, the right to a fair trial, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. Together, the Constitution and Bill of Rights provide both the structure of government and a safeguard of individual liberties.

Congress established Constitution Week in 1956 to encourage civic education and recognition of these founding principles. Federal law also requires schools that receive federal funding to provide programming on Constitution Day. Many schools set aside class time for students to read and discuss the Constitution and Bill of Rights, sometimes through debates or student-led recitations. Public libraries, museums and civic groups often display historic documents, organize essay contests or distribute pocket Constitutions to raise awareness. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services frequently schedules naturalization ceremonies during the week to highlight the ongoing relevance of constitutional rights.

For individuals, observing Constitution Week can be as simple as rereading the Constitution and Bill of Rights, talking with children about what the amendments mean today or attending a local event. The week serves as a reminder that these founding documents remain the living foundation of American democracy.