Editor’s note: Morrison Mayor Scott Vandermyde issued a Proclamation in support of Constitution Week, September 17 through 23. It was approved by City Council members. As occurred across the Colonies, at the initiation of our future Country, “Peeling Bells” will be heard. At noon on Wednesday, September 17, Emmanuel Church Ministry Coordinator Rich Criss will set the carillon to play for one minute of celebration. “Let Freedom Ring!”
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution urges Americans to reflect on the United States Constitution, Articles, and Amendments during the annual observance, to honor this foundational document of National governance.
NSDAR initiated the observance in 1955, when the patriotic service organization petitioned the U. S. Congress, to dedicate September 17–23 of each year to the commemoration of “Constitution Week.” Congress adopted the resolution, and on August 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into Public Law #915.
The celebration’s goals are threefold:
- to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787
- to remind the public that the Constitution is the basis of America’s great heritage and the foundation for its way of life
- to emphasize U. S. citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend, and preserve the U. S. Constitution.
“We are so proud DAR led the way in making Constitution Week an official commemoration….Our members enthusiastically promote the celebration annually, in communities across the Country, by erecting community displays; sponsoring municipal proclamations; ringing bells; staging programs to raise awareness of the Constitution’s tenets and importance,” said DAR Past-President General Pamela Rouse Wright. “We encourage all citizens to join us in celebrating this powerful document, that is so important to American history, and to reflect on the impact the Constitution has had on the lives of American citizens, past and present.”
NSDAR has been the foremost advocate for the awareness, promotion, and celebration of Constitution Week. The annual observance provides innumerable opportunities for educational initiatives and community outreach, which are two mission areas of crucial importance to the National Society. By fostering knowledge of, and appreciation for, the Constitution and the inalienable rights it affords to all Americans, DAR helps to keep alive the memory of the men and women who secured our Nation’s foundational liberties.
One of the largest patriotic women’s organizations in the world, DAR has 190,000 members in approximately 3000 chapters across the Country and several foreign Countries. DAR members promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships, and educational initiatives; citizenship programs; service to veterans; meaningful community service and more.
For additional information about DAR and its relevant mission, visit www.dar.org.