Constitution Day

Celebrate Constitution Day-September 17

Explore the legacy of American democracy and the living document that shapes our nation.

Join Glen Oaks Community College in celebrating Constitution Day on September 17—a national observance that honors the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and recognizes all U.S. citizens, whether by birth or naturalization.

Visit the GOCC Library on Constitution Day

Stop by the Glen Oaks Library on September 17 to commemorate the founding of the United States government. Learn about the Constitution, explore historical exhibits, and reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

What Is Constitution Day?

Constitution Day marks the anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s signing on September 17, 1787, by 39 delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. After months of intense debate and revision, these visionary leaders created a new framework of government that still guides our nation today.

Why It Matters

The U.S. Constitution established:

  • The three branches of government
  • A system of checks and balances
  • Fundamental rights and liberties for citizens

Every year, Constitution Day reminds us of our shared responsibilities in a democracy—and the power of civic participation.

The Constitution Today

The original U.S. Constitution is housed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and remains a cornerstone of American law and governance. Explore the National Archives Constitution Resources to learn more.

U.S. Constitution Timeline: Key Moments

  • March 25–28, 1785: Mount Vernon Conference – Maryland and Virginia delegates meet at George Washington’s estate to resolve river navigation disputes, setting the stage for future interstate cooperation.

  • September 11–14, 1786: Annapolis Convention – Five states convene to address trade regulation and recommend a broader constitutional meeting.

  • February 21, 1787: Congress Calls for Convention – Congress approves a meeting to revise the Articles of Confederation.

  • May 25, 1787: First Meeting of the Constitutional Convention – Delegates gather at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

  • May 29, 1787: Virginia Plan Proposed – Edmund Randolph introduces a bold new framework for a stronger national government.

  • July 26, 1787: Committee of Detail Formed – Delegates appoint a committee to draft the first version of the Constitution.

  • August 6, 1787: First Draft Presented – Committee of Detail presents the first full draft of the U.S. Constitution.

  • September 17, 1787: Constitution Signed – All but three delegates sign the final document, officially marking the birth of the Constitution.

  • June 21, 1788: Constitution Ratified – The Constitution is adopted when New Hampshire becomes the ninth state to ratify.

Learn More:

FAQs

Q: What is Constitution Day and why is it observed?
A: Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and recognizes all U.S. citizens.

Q: Is Constitution Day a federal holiday?
A: No, but educational institutions like GOCC honor it through programs and activities.

Q: Where can I see the original Constitution?
A: At the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Q: Do Glen Oaks students participate in Constitution Day?
A: Yes! Each year, students can visit the library to view resources, exhibits, and engage in civic learning opportunities.

 

Disclaimer:

This Congressional initiative is authorized by Section 111 of Division J of Pub. L. 108*447, the “Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005,” Dec. 8, 2004; 118 Stat. 2809, 3344-45 (Section 111). The Assistant Deputy Secretary for Innovation and Improvement (Assistant Deputy Secretary) takes this action in order to implement this provision as it applies to education institutions receiving Federal funding from the Department. Section (1110 b states “each educational institution that receives Federal funds for the fiscal year shall hold an educational program on the United States Constitution on September 17 of such year for the students served by the educational institution.” For purposes of the Department’s Implementation of this requirement, “educational institutions” includes but is not limited to “local educational agencies” and “Institutions of higher education” receiving Federal funding from the Department. Section 111 applies to all educational institutions receiving Federal funding, not only those receiving Federal funding from the Department. However, the Department’s authority only extends to those educational institutions receiving funding from the Department, and consequently the Department can only regulate to those institutions. Section 111 requires that Constitution Day be held on September 17 of each year, commemorating the September 17, 1787 signing of the Constitution. However, when September 17 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday, Constitution Day shall be held during the preceding or following week. Section 111 does not authorize funds to carry out this requirement, and Section 111(d) indicates that this section shall apply “without fiscal year limitation.” Accordingly, the Assistant Deputy Secretary intends that this notice pertain to this fiscal year and all subsequent years.