Every year on July 4th, millions of Americans celebrate the day the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. Last week another important date was recognized. On Sept. 17, 1787, the Constitution was signed, setting forth the framework for the federal government that is still used today. Following the Revolutionary War, America was hardly a united country, with each state holding its own powers, currency and military. The federal government had little power to regulate trade or levy taxes. In February 1787, Congress called a convention of state delegates to propose a new plan for government. Since the states had different economies and interests, the Constitutional Convention came up with a plan that would give limited powers to the federal government while maintaining a framework of federalism that is still strong today. Since that time, the Constitution has upheld and protected the freedoms that are central to the American way of life. In 1955, the Daughters of the American Revolution began celebrating Constitution Week, and in 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the resolution into law commemorating the celebration of Constitution Week. District 48 State Senator Mark Messmer of Jasper points out that the goal of the celebration is to encourage the study of the historical events that led to framing the Constitution, inform people that the Constitution is the basis of America’s heritage, and emphasize citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend and preserve the Constitution. He says local events, groups and institutions will also commemorate the anniversary. If you have any questions or comments always feel free to contact Messmers office directly by email at Senator.Messmer@iga.in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9467.
