The Origin And Importance Of Constitution Week (NAPSA)—Since the attack on September 11, 2001, Americans have rediscovered the importance of freedom and the responsibility of maintaining it. While the month of September will now forever be a time of remembrance, it is also a time of celebration of America’s freedoms. Constitution Week is one of America’s little e knownofficial commemorations. Celebrated each year during the week of September 17, the date of the ratification of the Constitution of the United States, Constitution Week is an opportunity for Americans to learn more about their rights and freedoms. THEN: The celebration of the Constitution was initiated by Gertrude S. Carraway, the President General of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in 1955. The DAR petitioned the United States Congress to authorize an official commemoration of our nation’s most important document. As a result, on August 19, 1955, President Eisenhower proclaimed September 17-23 as Constitution Week. The first observance of Constitution Week was so successful that a resolution to observe this week annually was adopted on July 23 and signed into Public Law 915 on August 2, 1956. NOW:At a time when American’s freedoms are being threatened by terrorists, it is important for all Americans to appreciate the significance of the Constitution and its relevance today. By observing the creation of this document that formed our nation, citizens can take part in celebrating our rights and freedoms. The purposes of the celebration are: * to emphasize the responsibility of protecting and defending the Ef FH 0) == SE oe By observing Constitution Week, people may also remember the liberties it guarantees. Constitution, and preservingit for posterity; * to understand that the Con- stitution is a great heritage; * to study the historical events which occurred during September 1787. Throughout the country, leaders will stress the importance of this observance by urging citizens to reflect on the many benefits of the Federal Constitution and American citizenship. Americans will be encouraged to study the Constitution and appreciate the privilege of living in a republic which functions under the oldest Constitution still in active use. Citizens will also be urged to reaffirm the ideals held by the framers of the Constitution and protect the freedoms guaranteed through this guardian ofliberties, remembering that lost rights may never be regained. Learning about the Constitution and the history that helped to shape it can empower people to make better decisions as citizens. For more information, visit www.DAR.org.
