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SALT LAKE CITY — Leaders and residents of the Beehive State this week gathered under the bright dome of the rotunda in the state Capitol building to celebrate the United States Constitution, kicking off celebrations a few days early in preparation for Constitution Month in September.
Gov. Spencer Cox declared the month of September as American Founders and Constitution Month and Sunday, Sept. 1, as a Day of Prayer, Fasting and Contemplation for our nation.
This marks a continuation of Utah's expansion upon Constitution Day celebrations, which long has been recognized on Sept. 17. Last year Utah state lawmakers passed HB179, a bill that proclaimed all of September as "American Founders Month," a law Cox said he "proudly signed." At Thursday's event, Cox said he'd like other states in the union to join Utah in celebrating the supreme law of the United States.
The event, organized by "Why I Love America" and sponsored by the Constitution Education Foundation, featured music from the American Heritage School Choir, a presentation of colors and speeches from Cox, U.S. Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, state Rep. Doug Owens, D-Millcreek, and Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi.
"I want you to know that I am sending a letter to all 50 governors with a couple declarations ... asking all of them to follow in Utah's footsteps and celebrate our Constitution, not just one day, but all," Cox said.
The nation's founding document is one of the United States' "best exports," the governor said, quoting George Washington's sentiment on the Constitution as being "the guide which I will never abandon." He stressed the Constitution's value in today's political climate.
"I am worried that the coming months are going to test our nation's foundation. I believe the Constitution that once united our nation can do it again," Cox said. "Now more than ever, it is important that every single one of us read and reflect on the inspired Constitution and its role in preserving our republic."
Cox also recognized Darin Hoover, the father of Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover, who was one of 13 service members killed during the Afghanistan withdrawal in August 2021. Hoover, who was sitting in the front row, later stood while the crowd applauded. The Hoover family was among those participating in Monday's wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, accompanied by Cox and former President Donald Trump.
A constitutional education
Attendees enjoyed patriotic displays and activities for adults and children, and some people dressed as early-American historical figures — including the ever-recognizable Benjamin Franklin — weaved their way through the crowds. Leaders emphasized the need to educate children and the next generation on the teachings of the Constitution in order build unity.
"We know that in order to hold onto who we are, we need to teach our kids who we are," said Owens, who represents the state's 4th Congressional District. He thanked the crowd for bringing their children to the event. "Our greatest responsibility is making our children understand the power of our great nation."
For Ogden resident Jessica Stoker and Centerville resident Francesca Green, Owens' message hit close to home. Stoker and Green, who homeschool their children, attended the event as an activity that ties into their September lesson plans, which focus on patriotism and American history.
"My husband is super passionate about U.S. history, and we just want to give our kids exposure to all the things that our country has done," Green told the Deseret News. Events like this, Green said, "help us gain perspective."
Stoker said she inherited her father's and grandfather's passion for American history and is instilling that into her teaching. "We need more opportunities to unite as Americans," she said.
Jen Brown, president of "Why I Love America," said she started the organization because, "If we don't do better teaching and celebrating these constitutional principles, it may not continue."
Cox's official Thursday declaration reiterated that state law "invites all Utah school children to read directly from the United States Constitution and other primary sources, with a special focus on Constitution Day, Sept. 17, and to be taught principles from the United States Constitution."
