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The Pa. Supreme Court Historical Commission and the Pa. Courts Mark Constitution Day with Educational Programs and Civic Engagement

September 16, 2025

The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Historical Commission and the Pennsylvania Courts are joining communities across the commonwealth and the nation in observing Constitution Day on September 17, a time set aside each year to honor the signing of the U.S. Constitution.

“On Constitution Day, we honor the enduring legacy not just of the U.S. Constitution, but also of our Pennsylvania Constitution which safeguards individual freedoms and reflects the values of its citizens,” said Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Debra Todd. “Each and every day, federal and state Constitutions serve as powerful foundations for upholding the principles of democracy, equality and self-governance.”  

The courts play a vital role in bringing the Constitution to life, ensuring that the rights and liberties guaranteed by the nation’s founding document are preserved and upheld.

“In every courtroom across Pennsylvania, the Constitution is more than history—it’s a living document that shapes how we deliver justice every day,” said Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Sallie Updyke Mundy.  “Constitution Day reminds us of the courts’ responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness, equality and due process upon which our democracy is built.”

This year, the Pennsylvania Courts are marking Constitution Day through a series of educational initiatives, outreach programs and public events that highlight the courts’ constitutional role.

Among the Constitution Day activities sponsored or supported by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s Historical Commission and the Pennsylvania Courts:

• Educational programs: Judges are visiting schools to discuss constitutional rights, the separation of powers and the importance of an independent judiciary.
  • In partnership with the Rendell Center for Civics & Civic Engagement, judges and attorneys are also virtually visiting classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of law, justice and civic responsibility.
• Civic engagement contests: Students in all grade levels are invited to participate in our series of statewide contests designed to spark curiosity, creativity and a deeper understanding of the judicial branch of government.
  • We invite students to explore the work, role, and impact of the courts through a variety of fun and educational contests – including an essay or coloring contest, social media campaign, design an infographic or create a video contest! Learn more here.
• Digital and social media resources: Online resources have been developed for educators, students and residents who want to deepen their understanding of the constitutional and the courts’ role in interpreting it.
  • Infographic – Federal vs. Pennsylvania Constitution
  • Watch Constitution Day videos:  for elementary students or for middle and high school students.
  • PowerPoint presentations: for elementary students or for middle and high school students
  • Test your knowledge and take the Kahoot quiz  
  • Follow and engage with PA Courts on our social channels: X @PaCourts, Facebook @Pennsylvaniacourts, Bluesky @pacourts.bsky.social, YouTube @pacourts7701

 

Constitution Day—sometimes referred to as Citizenship Day—also serves as an opportunity to recognize the responsibilities every citizen has in building and maintaining a just society.

For more information about Constitution Day events and resources, visit www.pacourts.us/civics-ed.

 

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Media contact:  Kim Bathgate, 717-576-4373

 

 

Pennsylvania Supreme Court Historical Commission:

The Supreme Court established the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Historical Commission in 2023 with the purpose of preserving and rediscovering the rich history of the Court. More information about the Historical Commission is available here.