Utah Parents United Official Statement Supporting American Founders and Constitution Month!

Last Thursday, August 31, 2023, a Press Conference was held in the Capitol Rotunda kicking off September as American Founders and Constitution Month. 

Governor Cox issued a proclamation declaring the State-wide focus. His proclamation included recognizing that it is essential for our rising generation and citizens of all ages to understand our history and form of government so it can be honored and perpetuated; the fact that the genius of the Constitution is federalism, which is its ability to decentralize power between the state and federal government; and an invitation to all public and private education institutions to recognize and observe September as American Founders and Constitution Month by reading from the Constitution and original documents and to teach principles from the United States Constitution. 

He ended with three key invitations that every one of us can participate in this month: (1) flying our national flag and engaging in patriotic activities, (2) educating ourselves about our U.S. Constitution, and (3) acknowledging and expressing gratitude to God for His hand in our nation’s origin and destiny, thereby qualifying us for the promise of the psalmist: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).

Among other speakers, Superintendent Sydnee Dickson shared the new Constitution Fitness Award recently finalized by the USBE that will apply to grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. This innovative new program correlates with current civic standards for each grade and gives students the opportunity to earn badges each year as they complete specific Constitution-related requirements. 

We’d like to specifically thank Representative Keven Stratton and Senator Ron Winterton for their work sponsoring HB 179, which provided the legislation to designate September as American Founders and Constitution Month, and specifically highlight September 17 as Constitution Day for the State of Utah. We are grateful for their important work to invite all adults and children to read from and be taught the principles of the United States Constitution on an ongoing basis.
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At Utah Parents United, we applaud efforts to promote and increase awareness of our nation’s Constitution and to help our children understand the importance of the foundation of our country. We encourage parents to take advantage of the many events happening this month, and to take time with your children to discuss the importance of the Founding Fathers and Mothers and documents of our country!