Constitution Day
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Constitution Day 2024 Events at CSI
- Constitutions on Campus
Students can pick up a free copy of the US Constitution in Spanish or English at the Library, at the Student Activities Office, or in the Social Science Department Office (Hep 149). - Check out the CSI Library's Constitution Day Display!
- Livestream of National Constitution Center's Launch of the Constitution 101 Student Course
Tuesday, September 17 th at 11 A.M. in Hepworth 140. - Constitution Trivia with the CSI Library
Thursday, September 19 th at the Herrett Center--12:30 P.M. Pizza on the lawn; Trivia at 1 P.M. in the Rick Allen Room. Bring a team or join one for a fun trivia contest. Prizes awarded to the top teams! - Built to Last? A film and activity on the enduring legacy of the US Constitution
Thursday, September 19th at 2:30 P.M. in Taylor 277/276. Join Political Science Professor Perri Gardner for a screening of the PBS documentary Built to Last and a post-viewing activity exploring constitutional amenndments.
Message from CSI President Dean Fisher
On September 17, 1787, at Constitution Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, America’s Founding Fathers signed the most influential document in American history: the American Constitution. Shortly thereafter, the first ten amendments were added. Those amendments, which are now known as the Bill of Rights, defined many of the individual liberties that we enjoy today.
The Bill of Rights is an excellent example of why our Constitution is often called a “living” document. Because it is not perfect it has been improved over time, allowing it to evolve and endure. For example, in the 1860s, it articulated the end of slavery with the 13th Amendment and later the 19th Amendment was added to guarantee women the right vote. As our nation has improved in its respect for the rights of each person, our Constitution has improved as well. Despite its imperfections, it has provided a remarkably durable framework for the United States. It is a testament to the American people that it has been modified over time to improve upon what our Founders referred to as “a more perfect union.” Its evolution allows us to learn from our past, and to have hope for our future.
In 2004, the United States Congress established September 17 of each year as Constitution Day. Among other directives, it provides colleges with the opportunity to schedule events and activities that enhance learning about the unique qualities and durability of the American Constitution. This education is critical, as we are improved as a society when each of us engages in civic awareness. Learning about our government and being active participants in our political systems is the essence of a government of, by, and for the people. I encourage each of you to take some time to explore the Constitution for yourself. Additionally, I invite you to review and participate in the activities planned by the College of Southern Idaho this September in recognition of Constitution Day and the American Constitution.
My thanks go out to Professor of Political Science Perri Gardner for her work in leading the College’s efforts. Each of you are valued members of the College community, and of our democracy, and I hope you’ll find the time to participate.
Best,