Constitution Week Commemorates Efforts, Dedication to Freedom

Most people recognize the phrase “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion,” but how many people know what Amendment addresses religion, freedom of speech and the press in one phrase, or where legislative powers are granted?

In 2016, the tenth annual Constitution Day Survey from ConstitutionFacts.com found knowledge of the Bill of Rights as one of the highest scoring areas of the survey. The survey also found that while knowledge of the Bill of Rights remains high, other areas of the Constitution are less

consistent. Questions answered correctly least often regarded powers of the federal government.

Constitution Week is designated to recognize the US Constitution and to encourage education about the Constitution.

In 1787, 39 delegates from the 13 American states came together and signed the Constitution.

In simple terms, the Constitution defines the shape of the government, what it can and cannot do. It starts with the Preamble that describe the intent and focus of the Constitution.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general welfare and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

The United States Constitution stands as a testament to the tenacity of Americans throughout history to maintain their liberties, freedoms and inalienable rights. It is the written testament supporting those inalienable rights claimed by the new country.

Celebrating the Constitution was started by the Daughters of the American Revolution when the DAR petition Congress in 1955 to set aside Sept. 17-23 to be dedicated to the observance of Constitution Week. The enactment was signed into law on Aug. 2, 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The focus of the celebration is to preserve the Constitution

Members of the Fort Sidney Chapter of the DAR have placed displays at the Sidney Public Library as well as in businesses in Sidney.

“Constitution Week is the perfect opportunity to read and study this great document which is the safeguard of our American liberties,” said DAR President General Lynn Forney Young. “We encourage all citizens across the country to take time this week to reflect on our heritage of freedom and come together to celebrate America.”

The DAR has served the U.S. for 125 years.