What is a 'more perfect union'

September 20, 2023

When Constitution Day rolls around every year on Sept. 17, Oklahoma State University arranges an introspective event, “Contemplating the Constitution.” This activity has offered a way for the community to connect and share their personal thoughts on the Constitution for the last three years.

Eve Ringsmuth, an Associate Professor of Political Science and one of the project organizers, saw it as a chance for the community to “intentionally reflect on an aspect of the Constitution and to share those thoughts each year.”

“’Contemplating the Constitution’ can help promote political knowledge and engagement among individuals, which ultimately promotes a healthy democracy,” Ringsmuth said.

This year “Contemplating the Constitution” prompts reflection on the familiar phrase from the preamble of the Constitution, “We the People of the United States, in Order to from a more perfect Union…” Participants are called to distill their thoughts into six words on what “a more perfect Union,” means to them and submit their entry online at library.okstate.edu/constitution/.

OSU students who participate will have the chance to win one of five $200 scholarships. To be considered for the drawing, students must enter by Sept. 22.  

Constitution Day is the time for citizens to reflect on what is said in the document and gain new perspectives. To learn more about Constitution Day at OSU and to view the previous celebrations, visit library.okstate.edu/constitution.

STORY BY: Carmen Mariah Washington, Event Promotions Intern

URL: https://library-dep.okstate.edu/news/archived-news/fall-2023/what-is-a-more-perfect-union

Last Updated: 20 September 2023