City teams with DAR for Constitution Week

(Rockwall) September 5, 2012 – Council proclaims Sept. 17 to Sept. 23 as Constitution Week

Rockwall Mayor David Sweet joined with the Rock Wall chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution to celebrate Constitution Week in September.

The tradition of celebrating the Constitution was started 57 years ago by the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1955, the Daughters petitioned Congress to set aside Sept. 17 to Sept. 23 annually to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week. The resolution was later adopted by the U.S. Congress and signed into Public Law #915 on August 2, 1956, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

CONSTITUTION WEEK FACTS

What is a proclamation?

A proclamation is an official public announcement, usually issued by mayors, governors, etc.

Why does the DAR actively promote Constitution Week?

Constitution Week was initiated by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The DAR is a patriotic organization that encourages education and historic preservation in communities acrossAmerica.

How did Constitution Week begin?

In 1955, the President General of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Gertrude S. Carraway, adopted a project to promote the observance of the U.S. Constitution with a memorial week beginning on the anniversary of the signing of this document, September 17. She asked DAR chapters, committees, and members to study, teach, and discuss the U.S. Constitution.

Caraway also encouraged members to invite their governors and mayors to issue proclamations celebrating the Constitution.

When did the United States government begin to observe Constitution Week?

Constitution Week was officially declared by President Eisenhower on August 2, 1956. This was the culmination of a proposal the DAR sent through Senator William F. Knowland ofCalifornia.

Is there a memorial honoring the Constitution?

Yes. DAR Constitution Hall inWashington,D.C.The inscription on the pediment reads, “Constitution Hall – a memorial to that immortal document, the Constitution of theUnited States, in which are incorporated the principles of freedom, equality and justice for which our forefathers strove.” DAR Constitution Hall is the only structure dedicated to the U.S. Constitution.

How can I celebrate Constitution Week?

• • Ask the school principals in your community to observe Constitution Week by issuing a school proclamation encouraging staff to teach the Constitution.
• • Urge children to study the Constitution with their personal proclamation pledge.

For local DAR information, call Peggy Atterberry, 972-771-5067.

Submitted by Joy Greenwalt, DAR.

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  Constitution Week, DAR, Daughters of the American Revolution, David Sweet, proclamation