Celebrating our Constitution
On September 17, 1787, members of the Constitutional Convention signed the final draft of the U.S. Constitution. For almost 250 years, the Constitution has served as the most important document in American history and government. This sacred and important document established our national government and fundamental laws and has protected and guaranteed certain basic rights to citizens of the United States.
Each year on September 17, Americans celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. The observance of Constitution Week runs annually from September 17 to September 23. It was officially enacted on August 2, 1956, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower from a congressional resolution petitioned by the Daughters of the American Revolution. George W. Bush officially declared the inception of Constitution Week in September 2002.
During this time, Americans are encouraged to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and what it means to be a U.S. citizen. A variety of organizations dedicate programs to observing Constitution Week. Below are some activities from our friends and partners:
- The Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 and is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for children. For Constitution Week, DAR holds the annual celebration “Bells Across America.” Participants gather to ring bells, much as the church bells of Philadelphia rang out when the U.S. Constitution was first signed at 4 pm on September 17, 1787. Consider organizing a group to ring bells on September 17 for 1 minute at 4:00 EDT to herald the beginning of this commemorative week. For more information.
- Constituting America’s core mission is to educate Americans about the Constitution and the rights and liberties it provides and protects for all of us. On Friday, September 16, in conjunction with Constitution Week, Constituting America will host virtual workshops geared toward students. Learn more about their Constitution Week Programming here.
- The U.S. Department of Education provides a variety of resources for students, teachers and caregivers. During Constitution Week, in conjunction with the National Archives, a series of webinars will be hosted. To attend or for lesson plans, check out the D.O.E.’s website.
America’s Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
A new contest inviting students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to participate in field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.