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 2025 Events at Îá°®³Ô¹Ï
- Constitution Day Celebration and Speaker
Join University of Idaho political scientist Dr. Markie McBrayer for a timely talk titled “Institutions That Shape Us: Magic Valley and the 2025 Election”.Thursday, September 18th. Pizza in the Fine Arts Lobby at 12pm followed by guest speaker at 12:30pm in Fine Arts 119.
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Constitutions on CampusStudents can pick up a free copy of the US Constitution at the Library, at the Student Activities Office, or in the Social Science Department Office (Hep 149).
- Check out the Îá°®³Ô¹Ï Library's Constitution Day Display!
- Constitution Trivia with the Îá°®³Ô¹Ï Library
Thursday, September 18th at the Library at 11am. Bring a team or join one on the spot. Prizes awarded to the top teams!
Message from Îá°®³Ô¹Ï President Dean Fisher
On September 17, 1787, at Constitution Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, America’s Founding Fathers signed the most influential document in American history: the American Constitution. Shortly thereafter, the first ten amendments were added. Those amendments, which are now known as the Bill of Rights, defined many of the individual liberties that we enjoy today.
The Bill of Rights is an excellent example of why our Constitution is often called a “living” document. Because it is not perfect it has been improved over time, allowing it to evolve and endure. For example, in the 1860s, it articulated the end of slavery with the 13th Amendment and later 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 imperfections, it has provided a remarkably durable framework for the United States. It is a testament to the American people that it has been modified over time to improve upon what our Founders referred to as “a more perfect union.” Its evolution allows us to learn from our past, and to have hope for our future.
In 2004, the United States Congress established September 17 of each year as Constitution Day. Among other directives, it provides colleges with the opportunity to schedule events and activities that enhance learning about the unique qualities and durability of the American Constitution. This education is critical, as we are improved as a society when each of us engages in civic awareness. Learning about our government and being active participants in our political systems is the essence of a government of, by, and for the people. I encourage each of you to take some time to for yourself. Additionally, I invite you to review and participate in the activities planned by the Îá°®³Ô¹Ï this September in recognition of Constitution Day and the American Constitution.
My thanks go out to 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 of our democracy, and I hope you’ll find the time to participate.