Constitution Day Is Coming

September 17 is Constitution Day, and under federal law, all colleges and universities that receive federal funding are required to conduct an educational program relating to the U.S. Constitution in observance of the day. 

The statutory language does not define “educational program,” and thus campuses have a great deal of latitude as to how to observe the event. The regulations also do not indicate any penalties for failure to comply with the mandate, nor do they indicate that specific activities need to be reported.

Both the Library of Congress and the National Constitution Center have online resources for planning activities and recognizing Constitution Day.

Congress enacted the law to commemorate the date in 1787 when the Constitution was signed, and to promote civic awareness and understanding about the Constitution.

NAICU encourages all members to embrace this opportunity to highlight the Constitution and advance civic education.