The Cincinnatus Association

You may have heard people say “I know my rights.” But how often do we hear, “I know my responsibilities”? Constitution Day — officially Constitution and Citizenship Day — is about both. It’s a reminder that the freedoms we enjoy come with duties, too.

And that’s what this episode of Democracy & Z is all about.

What Even Is Constitution Day?

Quick history lesson. On September 17, 1787, delegates signed the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia. Fast forward more than 200 years, and Congress decided we should mark that day every year. Not just to celebrate the signing, but to think about what citizenship really means.

In 2004, Senator Robert Byrd of West Virginia led the effort to create a law requiring all federally funded schools to hold programs on the Constitution every September 17. That’s why, if you’re in school, you might get a lesson, assembly, or activity tied to the day.

It’s not just a history class footnote. It’s about making sure every generation understands the framework of our government — and the role we play in it.

Why This Conversation, and Why Now?

For Constitution Day, special, we brought together a panel to discuss the importance of this founding document in our lives today:

• Angela, Aiken New Tech High School student in the Agriculture Career Tech Pathways program.
• Dr. David Childs, historian, educator, filmmaker, and longtime friend of Democracy and Me.
• Alice Schneider, civic leader and President of The Cincinnatus Association, a local civic organization working to improve the quality of life for all citizens

They talked about rights, responsibilities, and the question every citizen should ask: What does democracy need from me?

The Role of the Public: Don’t Just Celebrate — Participate

Here’s the catch: The Constitution doesn’t work if only a few people take part.

So ask yourself:

• What do you think is the most important thing about democracy?
• What can we do as citizens to get involved?
• What might happen to a democracy if only a few people participate?
• How can we make people comfortable approaching leaders and making change?

Democracy isn’t just about what’s fair or unfair. It’s about whether enough of us care enough to keep it going.

Bottom Line

The Constitution gave us the blueprint. It’s up to us to build on it.

Celebrate Constitution Day with more than just a history lesson. Think about what kind of citizen you want to be, because that’s the real legacy of September 17.