Constitution Day became a national observance in 2004, when Senator Robert Byrd passed a bill designating September 17 as the day for citizens to commemorate the signing in 1787 of the U.S. Constitution and to learn more about our founding document. Senator Byrd once said, “Our ideals of freedom, set forth and realized in our Constitution, are our greatest export to the world.” He added the Constitution Day clause to his 2004 federal spending bill because he believed that all citizens should know about their rights as outlined in the Constitution.
PSU is proud to acknowledge how the Constitution has shaped and continues to shape our country’s history.
2022 Constitution Day
The PSU community is invited to a workshop and panel discussion on Wednesday, September 14, from 12:30-2:00, in the HUB Hage Room, to mark Constitution Day 2022.
Attendees will engage with the Constitution itself, examining its structure and looking especially at amendments related to recent US Supreme Court decisions affecting individual rights. Small groups will also consider how this material can best be taught and publicized to sustain a civically healthy society.
The second half of the event will consist of a panel discussion followed by Q & A to contextualize and deepen the conversation. Panelists will be:
- Dr. Jason Charrette, political science, an expert on foreign policy and conflict and an experienced Constitution Day organizer.
- Prof. Kelsie Eckert, social studies education, an award-winning secondary teacher, women’s history podcaster, and civic educator.
- Prof. Mark Fischler, JD, criminal justice, a former public defender who now teaches about legal ethics and Constitutional law.
This event is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and our community to learn more about how the Constitution is interpreted and applied today. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
Learn more about Constitution Day
