MCHS student shares thoughts on Constitution

Written in 1787 and ratified in 1788, the United States Constitution is one of the most influential documents in the history of our country. In what was originally a meeting to revise the “Articles of Confederation,” our founding fathers painstakingly crafted this new document in secret one summer, closed up tight in the Philadelphia statehouse. They created a living document; a supreme law that would change with the times and the people. Through amendments and unwritten changes as well, the Constitution has guided our nation through both rough and smooth times. Though the content is not exactly as it was when it was composed by the founding fathers, the spirit remains the same. The ideals set forth in the Preamble to the constitution have, and always will, embody the American spirit at its best.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…” As the nation has changed, so has the meaning of these words. Once just encompassing white, landowning men, “We the People” now includes everyone -- men and women of every race and creed. With the ratification of the 13th, 14th, 15th and 19th amendments, slavery has been abolished, and blacks and women have been given the right to vote. “In order to establish a more perfect union” while at once acknowledges the flaws in the “Articles of Confederation,” can be read with a less historical context. Through the amendment process, laid out in the text of the document, provisions were made for the American people to change the Constitution, so that the union of states might be made stronger and better.

“…Establish Justice ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common Defense, promote the general Welfare…” One of the wonderful parts of the Constitution is that it is open to interpretation. In the monumental court case Marbury v. Madison, the principle of judicial review was established. This meant that the courts had the authority to enforce the Constitution and thereby abolish laws that were not in accordance with it. This serves as a protection for the rights of the minority, even when they are subjected to majority rule. Judicial review is a safety net, ensuring that our collective equality, our “oneness” under the banner of “We the People” can never be taken away. “Ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, (and) promote the general welfare” mean more than just preventing criminal acts, halting invading countries, or caring for the indigent.

Notice the word tranquil. The Constitution ensures the American people a life that is peaceful, one where an intrusive government will not hinder them in their pursuits. It promises a life where the basic right to the individual pursuit of happiness is not only given, but respected. The Constitution then swears to uphold that life from invaders who wish that peace harm. By doing this, the health and safety of the nation is preserved and advanced.

“…Secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” Liberty is among the rights that we as Americans value the most. It is not only granted to us through the Preamble, but also in the First Amendment. The citizens of the United States are blessed with freedoms that all too few nations are given. This liberty is bestowed not only upon us, but upon our children, and our children’s children, so that generations to come may live in freedom under our flag. Here again, one small word makes a difference in the meaning of this phrase: the word “for.” It is not a government of the people; it is a government for the people. The Constitution does not bend the will of the people; the will of the people bends the Constitution.

Now, 220 years later, we celebrate the Constitution in this years’ election, where all are welcome to join in and participate, from the young to the old. I am missing the opportunity to vote in this election; I turn 18 exactly two months after the country casts its ballots. That does not mean, however, that my voice doesn’t matter. By talking with my friends, developing my own views, and staying informed, I am able to participate, even though I can’t cast my vote. I am part of “We the People.” You are too. Even though we are not doing anything nearly as drastic as drafting a new Constitution, this year we will alter the direction of our country, no matter who we put in office.

The spirit of America will live on. The founding fathers would be proud.

(Guest columnist Claire Jackson presented the preceding speech at the September Montpelier Daughters of the American Revolution meeting. She is a standout history student at Madison County High School and is the daughter of the Rev. Brad Jackson and Jaynie Jackson of Madison. She received a DAR medal and certificate for the speech.)