Events | Featured | NewsSeptember 12, 2024

'We the People...': Constitution Week Returns to UAFS

Written By: Ian Silvester

“We the People” – three of the most recognized words in the United States were written at the Constitutional Convention nearly 240 years ago on September 17, 1787. At the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, the vision of the men responsible for writing the Constitution lives on with the celebration of Constitution Week and events to educate and encourage involvement in democracy.

From Monday, September 16, until Friday, September 20, the UAFS Democracy Project will host lectures, events, and a voter registration drive to commemorate Constitution Week.

“We look forward to celebrating Constitution Week every year,” said Dr. Williams Yamkam, an associate professor of history, social sciences, and philosophy. “We take this time to get our students to reflect on the history, structure, and importance of the U.S. Constitution. Doing so empowers our students to assess whether or not the U.S. Constitution lives up to its promises and why it is so important to get involved in the political process.”

Students, faculty, and staff who meet voter eligibility requirements can register to vote on September 17 – National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day – which comes just 50 days before the 2024 Presidential Election.

This year’s theme for Constitution Week is: “Power to the People?: The U.S. Constitution and Democracy.” All events will be held at the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center fireplace. The complete list of events includes:

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Monday, September 16

UAFS Democracy Project Tabling Event

11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The UAFS Democracy Project will be handing out information for Constitution Week.

Tuesday, September 17 – National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day

Voter Registration Drive

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Sebastian County Clerk’s office will assist the UAFS Democracy Project in registering students to vote. A voting machine will be available for students to experience the voting process. 

Poster Presentation

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

UAFS Democracy Project student volunteers will detail the uniqueness of this presidential race in a historical context.

Wednesday, September 18

“James Madison and the Problem of Democracy”

11-11:50 a.m.

Dr. Eric Baker, Assistant Professor of history, social sciences, and philosophy, will host a public presentation.

Democracy Forum

Noon to 1 p.m.

Student volunteers with the UAFS Democracy Project will host a discussion forum where students and campus groups can share their views on the election or state of democracy. All answers will be compiled and shared on Friday, September 20

Thursday, September 19

Constitution Quiz Bowl

12:30-1:30 p.m.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Lee Krehbiel will host his traditional quiz bowl on the U.S. Constitution.

Friday, September 20

Democracy Forum Response

Noon to 12:30 p.m.

UAFS Democracy Project student volunteers will respond to and discuss the views on democracy and the election provided by the campus on Wednesday, September 18.

Banner Making

12:30-1 p.m.

A banner with painted handprints from event attendees will be assembled to spell out “DEMOCRACY,” which will be hung up in the Gardner building.

Key U.S. Supreme Court Decisions Affecting U.S. Elections

2-2:50 p.m.

The adjunct faculty member, Dr. Farreol Hansen, will host a public presentation.

*A display of the U.S. Constitution will be available all week inside the Boreham Library*

• Tags:
• Constitution Day
• UAFS Democracy Project
• National Voter Registration Day
• Constitution Week