Welcome back to Common Sense Civics and Citizenship, where we are highlighting Constitution Day (September 17). It’s vital that Americans remember the Constitution is the “Supreme Law of the Land.” Even amid distractions, We the People are responsible for the direction of our government. Its success or failure rests with us. Let’s reflect on this important responsibility.
The Enduring Relevance of the U.S. Constitution
Do you think the Constitution applies to all times in American history? Or, should its meaning deviate from the original intent of the Founders and “live and breathe” with changing times in history?
Some argue that only academics or legal scholars can truly interpret the Constitution. However, the document was written for all Americans, not just the intellectual elite. The Founders, who were themselves highly capable, designed the Constitution to serve as the organic law of the land for everyone. Importantly, they included a method to amend the Constitution when necessary (see Article V).
Original Intent vs. a Living Document: The Ongoing Debate
If the Constitution was meant to change with the times, why did the Founders include their posterity (that is, you and me) in the Preamble? Why would We the People ordain and establish THIS Constitution for the United States of America? Their own words were definitive. The Founders’ process for amending was defined:
“(We the People) …secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”
What do you think? Should the Constitution be interpreted with original intent? Or should it be a document that changes with the times?
Happy Constitution Day, 2026!
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
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