In late 2004, Senator Byrd passed a legislation requiring that all schools, colleges and Federal agencies receiving Federal funds offer annual educational programming involving the Constitution of the United States on Constitution Day, Sept. 17.

Constitution Day is observed by spotlighting historic events, influential people and the document itself. Festivities at the University of Houston will begin Monday, Sept. 21, and continue throughout the week. The purpose of this week is to encourage the UH community to continue learning and appreciating this living document which, despite its birth over 200 years ago, still plays an integral role in our everyday lives.

The celebration’s kickoff will take place at the Cougar Resource Fair in the University Center on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., with a display table and distribution of US Flags and miniature Constitution booklets. Other exhibits and online lectures are being planned and will be posted at www.uh.edu/constitutionday (dates, times and events). The focus of the educational effort will be on voting rights and responsibility.

In addition, a committee comprised of representatives from student government, staff council, student affairs and the president’s office is leading a voter registration drive by urging all students, staff and faculty to register to vote by the Oct. 5 deadline. Voter Registration applications are available at the Campus Housing Service Desks, the Student Information & Assistant Center at the University Center, the Dean of Students Office, through the Student Government Association, and online at www.tax.co.harris.tx.us (click on Voter Registration). Information regarding voter registration, early voting, transportation for early voting, general election day, election issues, and UH registration initiatives will be posted on www.uh.edu/registertovote. Election Day is Nov. 3, 2009

Cool links:

Virtual Field Trip

Interactive Constitution

Quick Facts

The American Presidency

The American President

Bill of Rights Institute

Congress Link

The Federal Judiciary

United State Senate

House of Representatives

United States Supreme Court

White House