The most significant document in American history, the U.S. Constitution, was signed on Sept. 17, 1787. More than 230 years later, that day marks the beginning of a week designed to keep democracy and freedom alive across the nation.
At the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, Constitution Week is celebrated with lectures, events, celebrations, and of course, a voter registration drive.
“Voting is a right that is not guaranteed to every human by their government,” said UAFS Student Government Association (SGA) president Justin Dang “But it was given to us – our right to vote, and express our opinions.”
On Sept. 19, National Voter Registration Day, Justin and other SGA members welcome all UAFS students to stop by the SGA Office in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, room 119-A, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“It’s very easy to get set up, and it’s a way for you to be aware of what’s happening.” Justin said.
Students, faculty and staff who will turn 18 before the next election and meet voter eligibility requirements can register to vote in Arkansas, Oklahoma, or Missouri in the SGA office. The office will supply all forms and will mail them to the necessary office at no charge to the student.
“The barriers to register and vote are really not that high, but we want to eliminate one more barrier,” he said. “You’re already on campus; just come register to vote. That way, you don’t have to do it later.”
National Voter Registration Day is one of the many events hosted by SGA and the UAFS Democracy Project during Constitution Week.
The full slate of events includes:
“A Discussion on the U.S. Constitution” – special presentation on display throughout the week
Monday-Friday, Sept. 18-22, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Boreham Library
Cupcakes and Constitution
The Importance of the U.S. Constitution to UAFS Lions – meet and learn hosted by the UAFS Student Government Association.
Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center SGA Office
U.S. Constitution Lecture by Dr. Eric Baker
Tuesday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m.
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center Fireplace
A Written Constitution, the Greatest Improvement on Political Institutions – public lecture hosted by Dr. Farreol Hansen
Wednesday, Sept. 20, at noon
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center Fireplace
U.S. Constitution Quiz Bowl
Thursday, Sept. 21 at Noon
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center Fireplace
Public Showing of Documentary on the Constitutional Convention
Friday, Sept. 22 at 11 a.m.
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center Fireplace
Rachel Rodemann Putman
Director of Communications
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith
Mobile: (501) 276-6282
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