We the people of the United States of America celebrate Constitution Day annually on Sept. 17, the day which marks the birth date of the American government as it is today. 

The Constitution is the governing document of the United States which established the democracy. It was ratified and signed by the 39 founding fathers at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, 1787.

Notable founding fathers include the first President George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and James Madison who wrote the Bill of Rights which established individual freedoms under the law such as freedom of speech, press, religion and assembly. 

Constitution day is a symbol for the rights and freedoms that are granted to American citizens, which is especially important to exercise during an election year. 

The Constitution established the Electoral College and guarantees an individual’s right to vote. In addition, it set up the three-branch system with checks and balances to ensure that each governing body will hold equal power and hold one another accountable. 

At Cleveland State, Constitution Day was recognized at the Michael Schwartz Library with a presentation by Professor Reginald Oh from the College of Law in the library's connection lounge. 

This event was part of the “Democracy 101” series that the Michael Schwartz Library is hosting this election season.