In celebration of Constitution Day - Thursday, September 17, 2020, the Public Policy Institute (PPI) wants students and faculty to consider the Constitution's influence on society. From desegregation, to the right of privacy, to the ability to own firearms, to protecting same sex marriage, the Constitution has been interpreted in ways that have greatly changed our society in the past. This year for Constitution Day, we are asking how people believe the Constitution will change our society in the future.
"With the ratification of the 19th Amendment and the passage of the Equal Voting rights act providing all women with the right to vote, women have been consistently outperforming men at the polls since the 1980s."
Graduate Assistant's Addie Ward and Matt Wilson collaborated in contemplating changes to the Constitution. To celebrate the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment, Ward & Wilson researched the Suffrage Movement and other advancements towards furthering equity in voting practices. They recall the historical roots of the Suffrage movement and reveal the results of those efforts. These results are reflected in stats highlighting the strong influence of women in the election process. If you are interested in learning more please Read the Celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment by Ward & Wilson.
Students and faculty are to submit a video answering the question: "How do you think the Constitution will change or influence society in the next 50 years?" Please see Professor Ormerod's response in the video below.
Professor Peter Ormerod
More videos on how the Constitution will change or influence society:
Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, recognizing all who are born in the U.S, or by naturalization, have become citizens. Constitution Day was recognized as a federal holiday in 2004, when Senator Robert Byrd passed a bill designating September 17 of each year as Constitution Day and requiring public schools and government offices to provide educational programs to promote a better understanding of the Constitution.