Constitution Day
About the Constitution
Online Election Resources
Voting is the most fundamental principle of democracy. Be informed: study candidates, races, and issues. Exercise your right to vote!
Constitution Day 2022 Events at CSI
- Constitutions on Campus
Students can pick up a free copy of the Constitution at the Library, at Student Activities Office, or in Prof Gardner's Office Hours.
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An Evening of Constitutional Conversation
Thursday, September 15th @ 6 p.m. in Health Science (HSHS) Building, Room 150
Join the Social Science Department for an evening of Constitutional conversation and pizza. Dr. Marie Stango of Idaho State University will host a talk entitled “Reconstruction, Black Politics, and the U.S. Constitution”. The United States was transformed by the Civil War (1861-1865) and its aftermath, Reconstruction (1865-1877). Constitutionally, the Reconstruction Amendments – the abolition of slavery (13), birthright citizenship and equal protection of the laws (14), and universal manhood suffrage (15) – altered the American political landscape, as did the new state constitutions drafted in much of the American South. This talk explores how Black Americans engaged with these political processes during Reconstruction, moving the nation toward a fulfillment of the promise of "a more perfect union." -
National Constitution Center’s “State of the Union: Civics” Webinar
Friday, September, 16th @ 11am MT. Register Here
Historians and legal experts join National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen for a discussion on the issues and events in early America that led to the Constitutional Convention. We will also explore the major debates at the Convention, and how those discussions shaped the future of the United States. Panelists will also discuss their careers, as well as answer questions from participants.
Message from CSI President Dean Fisher
On September 17, 1787, at Constitution Hall in Philadelphia, the Founding Fathers signed the most influential document in American history: the American Constitution. The first ten amendments, now known as the Bill of Rights, were quickly added to define individual liberties. Our Constitution is often called a “living” document because it has been improved over time. While not perfect, it has evolved and endured. For example, in the 1860s, it articulated the end of slavery with the 13th Amendment and 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 limitations, it has been a remarkably durable framework for the United States. It is a testament to the American people that it has been modified over time with amendments to improve upon what our Founders referred to as “a more perfect union.”
In 2004, the U.S. Congress established each September 17 as Constitution Day. Among other things, it provides colleges with an opportunity to schedule events and activities that enhance learning about the unique durability of the American Constitution. We are improved as a society when each of us engages in civic awareness. Learning about our government and being active participants in our systems is the essence of a government of, by, and for the people. This year, I invite you to review the activities planned by CSI in recognition of Constitution Day and the American Constitution and I hope that you will take an active part in them.
My thanks go out to Associate 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 I hope you’ll find the time to participate. Additionally, I would encourage each of you to explore the Constitution for yourself: