Origin and Evolution of Constitution Day
William Randolph Hearst proposed "I Am an American Day" in 1939 to celebrate American citizenship. Congress approved it in 1940, setting the third Sunday in May for the observance. The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service supported Hearst's efforts, which included sponsoring a film widely shown in theaters.
In 1952, Olga T. Weber of Louisville, Ohio, successfully campaigned to move the date to September 17, marking the U.S. Constitution's signing anniversary. President Eisenhower signed this change into law in 1953, renaming it "Citizenship Day."
Louise Leigh's advocacy in the late 1990s further shaped the observance. With Senator Robert Byrd's support, the "Constitution Day" amendment passed in 2004, officially establishing Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as a combined event. Leigh also successfully pushed for mandatory educational programs on the Constitution in schools receiving federal funds.

Significance of Constitution Day
Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution and reinforces the enduring values and principles within this foundational document. The Constitution provides the framework that safeguards the liberties and rights Americans enjoy today.
Educational mandates associated with Constitution Day play a crucial role in perpetuating these values. All educational institutions receiving federal funds must provide programs about the Constitution, fostering constitutional literacy among students. This requirement prepares students to be informed and responsible citizens.
- Federal agencies participate by providing educational materials to employees
- Nationwide observance encourages reflection on constitutional rights and responsibilities
- Citizens examine mechanisms protecting democratic freedoms
Constitution Day serves as a moment for citizens to reflect on their roles within a constitutional republic. It honors the foresight of the Founding Fathers while looking forward, recognizing that the Constitution's principles continue to guide the nation. By celebrating Constitution Day, Americans reaffirm their dedication to justice, liberty, and equality.

Early Efforts and Challenges in Recognizing Constitution Day
The early 20th century saw grassroots efforts to establish Constitution Day, with organizations like the National Security League (NSL) playing a significant role. The NSL, founded in 1914, aimed to strengthen patriotism and viewed the Constitution as a cornerstone of American liberty.
Despite the NSL's efforts to promote Constitution Day through educational campaigns, progress was slow. Political and social obstacles, including controversies surrounding the NSL's support for wartime policies, limited their influence. Nevertheless, their work contributed to the adoption of Constitution Day activities in educational institutions.
Local communities began recognizing the importance of celebrating the Constitution independently of national-level events. Classroom observances in the 1930s included activities such as:
- Reading the Preamble
- Debating constitutional amendments
However, national recognition remained elusive due to competing interests and major events like the Great Depression and World War II.
The transition from "I Am an American Day" to Constitution Day was gradual. President Harry Truman's 1952 proclamation established Citizenship Day, explicitly connecting it to the Constitution. Later efforts by individuals like Louise Leigh and Senator Robert Byrd led to the 2004 Omnibus Spending Bill amendment, which mandated constitutional programs in federally funded educational institutions.
This evolution demonstrates how grassroots advocacy can shape national observances, highlighting the enduring power and influence of the U.S. Constitution in American civic life.

Constitution Day reaffirms the principles that form the foundation of American governance. This observance honors the Founding Fathers' vision and calls citizens to actively engage with the values enshrined in the Constitution. How can we ensure that future generations continue to understand and uphold these fundamental ideals?

- Eckstein M. A Short History of Constitution Day. Prologue Magazine. 2005;37(3)
- National Archives. Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. National Archives. 2021
- Library of Congress. Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Library of Congress. 2021