Meramec prepares to host “Constitution Day” event
BY: LAUREN JOHNS
Art & Life Editor
Due to St. Louis Community College receiving federal funds each year, all campuses are required to host a Constitution Day event.
“It can be something as simple as handing out pamphlets on voter rights,” said Debbie Corson, service learning coordinator. “But the other facu
lty members and I wanted a big, fun ‘Birthday Bash’. Honestly, I wanted to do this anyway regardless of requirements.”
The event to commemorate the signing of the US Constitution will occur September 17-18th, and be held in BA 105 from 10-2. There will be a variety of speakers all from the “League of Women Voters.” On Monday, the League’s own Nancy Price will discuss why voting matters to today’s youth.
“If 5,000 individuals decide their votes don’t count, no one will vote,” said Corson. “Therefore, I feel this is an important issue to address.”
On Tuesday, there will be two speakers–State Representative Debbie Lavender addressing political offices from 11:00am – 12:00pm, and the League’s own Sue Williams discussing the history of voting rights from 12:30pm – 1:00pm. In addition, there will be a 5-10 minute Q & A to conclude.
“I believe you get the deepest understanding from asking questions, this relates to the classroom as well,” said Dr. Emily Neal, political science professor.
Aside from the speeches, this event will include: postcards to connect with state representatives, a selfie booth, giant jenga (representing different branches of government), patriotic punch and cupcakes and the soundtrack from the musical “Hamilton”.
“Because of today’s society lead by a president unfit to lead, and a legislator that still prevents people from voting through silly picture ID laws,” said Neal, “I would encourage everyone to participate to learn more about the limits of our government. The picture IDs are meant to protect from voter impersonation, but there are zero documented cases.”
Dr. Neal often reiterates that true equality has not yet been reached. The 1960’s Voting Rights Act hardly settled this issue of minorities being denied what’s legally theirs. According to her, “the history of voting rights” is inevitably the most important speaking topic as a result.
Aside from the importance of voting, Corson believes the event is a great way to get students out of their comfort zone and help them stay engaged in community affairs. “We want organizations like Phi Theta Kappa and Service Works to run the online quizzes, the “We the People Wall” (asking students what it means to them) and handing out flyers for the UMSL voting film, which we will set up a trailer for,” said Corson. “In addition, the Board of Election Commissioners is looking to hire students as poll workers.”
