Constitution and Citizenship Day chance to reflect on shared commitment to democratic values

Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green’s proclaimed Sept. 17 as Constitution and Citizenship Day in Hawaiʻi.

The special day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and highlights the enduring importance of constitutional governance throughout Hawaiʻi’s history.

Green states in his proclamation that Constitution and Citizenship Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the shared commitment to democratic values, civic participation and protection of individual rights.

It also honors the constitutional traditions of the United States and Hawaiʻi — including the first written constitution of the Hawaiian Kingdom adopted in 1840 — and encourages people of the islands to engage in activities that deepen their understanding of Hawaiʻi’s distinctive constitutional history.

Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education — created by Hawaiʻi Supreme Court — is dedicated to advancing civic education for all community members.

Through partnerships with schools, judges, attorneys and civic organizations, plus initiatives such as Hawaiʻi State Judiciary History Center’s Speakers Bureau and Hawaiʻi Department of Education Schools of Democracy program, the commission aims to provide robust opportunities for everyone in Hawaiʻi to learn about democracy, the rule of law and active citizenship.

The Judiciary and Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education encourage schools statewide to mark Constitution and Citizenship Day with special lessons, events and programs that foster civic engagement and celebrate constitutional heritage.

“Never has civic education been more important for the state of Hawaiʻi and the nation in raising the next generation of good citizens and civic leaders,” said Green in an annoucement about the special observance. “The U.S. Constitution is the source of our national freedoms, and the Hawaiʻi Constitution expresses the vision of the people of Hawaiʻi for the future — from the protection of traditional and customary rights to the right to a clean environment.”

The governor added that Constitution and Citizenship Day is a perfect opportunity for “reflection on how we can progress together as a people.”

“The [Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education] appreciates Gov. Green’s recognition of Constitution and Citizenship Day and the essential role of civics education in our democracy,” said Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justice Lisa Ginoza, chairwoman of Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education, in the announcement. “This day reminds us that active citizenship — through learning, participation and civil engagement with each other — ensures that the important principles in our U.S. and Hawaiʻi Constitutions endure.”

Click here or email info@civicshawaii.org for additional information about Commission to Promote and Advance Civic Education initiatives.