I generally have no basis for agreeing with Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV) on much of anything, but the man does believe in educating people about the Constitution. In fact, Byrd carries a copy of the Constitution with him at all times. (Full Geek Disclosure: I keep a copy in my briefcase as well).
Most Americans couch their understanding of the government in the belief in their "rights," including some rights that don't exist, but that is another matter. While many Americans claim to "know their rights," most couldn't point to any provision in the Constitution that gives them those rights. Because of hte failing nature of civic edcuation, Byrd included an amendment in an appropriations bill last year (a poor method for legislating, but again the topic of another post) that required all schools (colleges included) to teach the topic of the Constitution on Sept 17 of each year. Since most people can't tell you when the Constitution was adopted, it was on Sept. 17, 1787.
Even some of the most educated Americans show an alarming lack of knowledge of the basic operation and structure of the American government, failing to realize that such ignorance costs them money and time. I for one am glad that such an educational effort will be made.
For one day, schools must teach the same topic
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