Constitution Week in Gilbert
"We pay a price when we deprive children of the exposure to the values, principles and education they need to make them good citizens." Sandra Day O'Connor, Supreme Court Justice (retired) & native Arizonan
With an attitude like that, it is hardly surprising to learn that the largest celebration of our Constitution in the nation occurs in Gilbert, Arizona. This year's celebration, Constitution Week, occurs September 17 -23. The many events include Family Constitution Lessons, a Scout Clinic, a Tribute to the Founders and the Constitution Fair.
The week between September 17 and 23 was declared "Constitution Week" on August 2, 1956, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The declaration was requested by Congress, who had themselves been petitioned by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Today, the DAR, a non-profit, non-political volunteer organization promoting patriotism, education, and the preservation of American history, is one of the most inclusive genealogical societies in the nation. The week-long commemoration of the guiding document of American society they strove to create more than half a century ago, unfortunately, is among the least-known official observances in the country.
Gilbert's first week-long celebration was held in 2002. That first celebration was organized by Bill Norton and Barb Stowell at the request of John Lewis, then the President of the Gilbert, Arizona Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In addition to the Constitution Fair, Tribute to the Founder event and a Family Lesson, Gilbert's first Constitution Week also included a 9/11 memorial. Subsequent celebrations have moved away from memorializing the sad events of September 11, 2001 and back towards commemorating the principles of liberty in the U.S. Constitution along with the responsibilities and history of American citizenship. In fact, September 17, the first day of Constitution Week, is Citizenship Day.
The highlight of the week is the Constitution Week Fair. Performances and activities promoting the Constitution are held amidst replicas of buildings that played an important role in our nation's history such as the White House, the Capital, the Supreme Court Building, Independence Hall and the Washington Monument. Internationally renowned action painter Michael Israel headlines this year's fair, on Saturday, September 22. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. at Mesquite High School at 500 S. McQueen Road in Gilbert. Admission is free.
