Bill of Rights Press Kit Multimedia
Check back shortly for a multimedia package featuring speakers and highlights from the announcement of the landmark agreement.
The Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights
As part of a landmark agreement between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and The New York Public Library, the National Constitution Center will display one of the 12 surviving copies of the Bill of Rights starting in fall of 2014. The Center—the museum of “We the People”—will be the first institution in Pennsylvania to exhibit this rare, original document to the general public.
Many of the rights and liberties Americans cherish—such as speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial—were not enumerated in the original Constitution drafted at the Philadelphia Convention in 1787 but were included in the first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791.
In displaying this historic document for “We the People,” the Center will provide visitors of all ages with a better understanding of the Constitution, the essential freedoms it protects, and its enduring relevance in our daily lives. The document will complement the Center’s current exhibits and artifacts—including the popular Signers’ Hall and the first public printing of the Constitution.
View the exhibition press kit to learn more about this document and this historic agreement.
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Military History Buffs
If you want to learn all about the military and the people involved in the wars that shaped our nation, you won’t want to miss these programs.
10:15 – 11 a.m.: At the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street), learn about women played important roles in the fight for American independence.
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Take some time to explore the Betsy Ross House. Then, grab a snack and head to the National Constitution Center lawn to wander through the re-created Revolutionary War encampment, where you can practice mustering with the troops, stop by the medical tent, visit the blacksmith, or try your hand at carpentry or leatherwork.
12 – 12: 30 p.m.: Head inside the National Constitution Center for the In the Army Now program, where you can learn the ins and outs of Army life.
12:30 – 1 p.m.: Walk over to Elfreth’s Alley (on 2nd Street between Race and Arch Streets) to do some initial exploring of this historic street.
1 – 1:45 p.m.: While at Elfreth’s Alley, join Dr. Judith Giesberg of Villanova University on an engaging walking tour, where you’ll learn about women who had a vested interest in the military, particularly the Civil War.
1:45 – 2:15 p.m.: Head over to the Independence Visitor Center lawn to pick up your free hoagie as part of Wawa Hoagie Day!
2:15 – 3 p.m.: Learn about black soldiers and their role in the Civil War in a fascinating talk with Dr. Matthew Pinsker of Dickinson College.
3 – 4:30 p.m.: At the Soldier Mail Call, be sure to write a note to a soldier serving overseas. Then, take some time to explore the National Constitution Center’s exhibitions.
4:30 – 5 p.m.: Head to the second floor of the Center for the Fourth of July show. Learn how we have the celebrated the end of the Revolutionary War and our independence throughout American history.
5 – 5:30 p.m.: Stay where you are to enjoy another program, the Flag Etiquette Workshop, where you’ll discover the history and symbolism of the American flag and to learn about the proper way to treat it.
The National Constitution Center is open until 8 p.m. on July 2, so take your time and enjoy!
Finding the Founders Marathon Challenge
With the National Constitution Center’s Finding the Founders program, you can visit the Center and sites throughout Historic Philadelphia for fascinating conversations with scholars, who will share their insights on equality and freedom through the lens of the American Revolution.
Want to see it all? Here’s your game plan. Just be warned: you’re going to have to be on your toes. (Note: You may have to leave some programs a few minutes early to make it to the next one.) So tie on your sneakers and get ready, because this historic race is about to start! Ready, set … GO!
10:15 – 11 a.m.: At the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street), learn about women in Revolutionary America during a family-friendly program with historian Sandra Lloyd, with fun and surprises for all ages! If you want to explore the house a bit, just come by when it opens.
11 – 11:45 a.m.: Jog over to Elfreth’s Alley (on 2nd Street between Race and Arch Streets) for an engaging walking tour with Dr. Judith Giesberg of Villanova University about labor and class and gender equality in the 19th century.
11:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Lunch break! It may be fast, but it will help to grab something that can be enjoyed on the go—like a free Wawa hoagie, which you can pick up at the Independence Visitor Center lawn as part of Wawa Hoagie Day. You’ll be able to eat it during the next program.
12 – 1 p.m.: Caught your breath? Good, because it’s time to go—head to the National Constitution Center lawn to start a walking tour of the historic district with Dr. George Boudreau of Pennsylvania State University, focused on the transformation of equality in America.
1 – 1:30 p.m.: At the National Constitution Center, run up to Signers’ Hall to join Dr. Richard Beeman of the University of Pennsylvania to discover how the meaning of “We the People” has evolved and expanded throughout our nation’s history—and what it means today.
1:30 – 2:15 p.m.: Head downstairs to The 1968 Exhibit, where you can join Dr. Ralph Young of Temple University to learn about the protests that have defined us as a nation and what your role can be in shaping the future!
2:15 – 3 p.m.: Join Dr. Matthew Pinsker of Dickinson College for a fascinating talk about racial equality during the Civil War era.
3 – 3:30 p.m.: Take a deep breath. You did it! You made it to every Finding the Founders program. Wander through the re-created Revolutionary War encampment on the National Constitution Center lawn to enjoy Colonial demonstrations and other activities. And maybe grab a snack—you deserve it!
3:30 – 4 p.m.: Head back inside the National Constitution Center for the In the Army Now program, where you can learn the ins and outs of Army life.
4 – 4:30 p.m.: Stay where you are to enjoy another interactive show, What America Eats: The History of the Hoagie. You’ll learn all about the hoagie and the many names “We the People” use for this sandwich.
4:30 – 5 p.m.: Sit back and relax as you enjoy the Fourth of July show, taking an in-depth look at this exciting celebration of freedom throughout American history.
5 – 5:30 p.m.: Participate in our Flag Etiquette Workshop to discover the history and symbolism of the American flag and to learn about the proper way to treat it.
Congratulations! You did it all. Now you have time to wander through the National Constitution Center’s exhibitions. Experience the inspiring theatrical performance Freedom Rising, explore the dynamic exhibition The Story of We the People, and sign the Constitution alongside life-size, bronze statues of the Founding Fathers in Signers’ Hall. You can also stop by The 1968 Exhibit, which brings to life one of America’s most colorful, chaotic, culture-shifting years to life.
The National Constitution Center is open until 8 p.m. on July 2, so take your time and enjoy!
Finding the Founders has been supported in part by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, the Federal-State Partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Family Fun
Here’s how to make the most of fun, family-friendly Independence Day activities throughout Historic Philadelphia that all ages are sure to enjoy!
10 – 11:15 a.m.: At the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street), learn about women in Revolutionary America during a family-friendly program with historian Sandra Lloyd, with fun and surprises for all ages! Then, take your time exploring this fascinating historic house.
11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Wander through the re-created Revolutionary War encampment on the National Constitution Center lawn and enjoy Colonial lawn games and face-painting. Then, head across the street to the Independence Visitor Center lawn to pick up your free hoagie as part of Wawa Hoagie Day!
12:30 – 2 p.m.: Experience the inspiring theatrical performance Freedom Rising, explore the dynamic exhibition The Story of We the People, and sign the Constitution alongside life-size, bronze statues of the Founding Fathers in Signers’ Hall. You can also stop by The 1968 Exhibit, which brings to life one of America’s most colorful, chaotic, culture-shifting years to life.
2 – 3 p.m.: Head to the Bank of America Family Theater in the main exhibition to watch a showing of Living News. This live theatrical performance brings today’s headlines and constitutional debates to life and encourages viewers of all ages to interact and share their ideas.
3 – 4 p.m.: Throughout the museum, participate in hands-on demonstrations, interactive educational programs, and patriotic craft stations. This is also a great time to meet our mascots, Ellie the Elephant and Donnie the Donkey!
4 – 4:30 p.m.: Join us for a fun, interactive program about the history of the hoagie—and the many names “We the People” use for this sandwich.
The National Constitution Center is open until 8 p.m. on July 2, so take your time and enjoy!
Civil Rights Enthusiasts
If you’re passionate about equality and civil rights, this is the itinerary for you. Learn about the struggles Americans have faced and how our concept of equality has evolved.
10 – 11 a.m.: Meet at the front lawn of the National Constitution Center (525 Arch Street) to start your day with a walking tour of the historic district with Dr. George Boudreau of Pennsylvania State University, focused on the transformation of equality in America.
11 – 12:15 p.m.: Step inside the Center’s main exhibition and be inspired by the extraordinary story of Constitution and how the definition of “We the People” has expanded throughout American history.
12:15 – 1 p.m.: Join Dr. Matthew Pinsker of Dickinson College for a fascinating talk about racial equality during the Civil War era.
1 – 1:30 p.m.: Head over to the Independence Visitor Center lawn to pick up your free hoagie as part of Wawa Hoagie Day!
1:30 – 2:15 p.m.: Inside the Center’s 1968 Exhibit, join Dr. Ralph Young of Temple University to learn about the protests that have defined us as a nation and what your role can be in shaping the future!
Then, take your time exploring The 1968 Exhibit and checking out the array of Independence Day programs and activities at the Center. The National Constitution Center is open until 8 p.m. on July 2, so take your time and enjoy!
Plus, you can visit the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street) and Elfreth’s Alley (on 2nd Street between Race and Arch Streets) for some memorable historic sights.
Historic Philadelphia Bucket List
Here’s a suggested itinerary to check off all the must-see Historic Philadelphia sights—and have a great time along the way!
10 – 11 a.m.: Meet at the front lawn of the National Constitution Center (525 Arch Street) to start your day with a walking tour of the historic district with Dr. George Boudreau of Pennsylvania State University, focused on the transformation of equality in America.
11 – 11:30 a.m.: At the Center, explore The 1968 Exhibit, a multimedia, multi-generational-focused exhibition that brings to life one of America’s most colorful, chaotic, culture-shifting years to life.
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.: While in The 1968 Exhibit, join Dr. Ralph Young of Temple University to learn about the protests that have defined us as a nation and what your role can be in shaping the future!
12:15 – 1 p.m.: Wander through the re-created Revolutionary War encampment on the National Constitution Center’s lawn, then head across the street to the Independence Visitor Center lawn to pick up your free hoagie as part of Wawa Hoagie Day!
1 – 1:45 p.m.: Explore Elfreth’s Alley (on 2nd Street between Race and Arch Streets) with Dr. Judith Giesberg of Villanova University on an engaging walking tour about labor and class and gender equality in the 19th century.
1:45 – 3 p.m.: Head back to the Center to explore the museum’s main exhibition, featuring Freedom Rising, a multimedia theatrical performance; The Story of We the People, an interactive exhibition; and Signers’ Hall, where you can sign the Constitution alongside life-size, bronze statues of the Founding Fathers.
3 – 3:45 p.m.: At the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street), learn about women in Revolutionary America during a family-friendly program with historian Sandra Lloyd, with fun and surprises for all ages!
Take the rest of your day to catch any other historic sites on your bucket list. The National Constitution Center is open until 8 p.m. on July 2, so take your time and enjoy!
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July 2 Itineraries
There are so many things to do in Philadelphia during the week of the Fourth of July—here’s how to make the most of your day as part of the National Constitution Center's All-American Celebration on the Mall on July 2. Check out our suggested itineraries:
- For family fun »
- For tackling a Historic Philadelphia must-see bucket list »
- For taking the Finding the Founders marathon challenge »
- For civil rights enthusiasts »
- For military history buffs »
A Civic Education Hub
In 2013, the Center celebrates is 10th anniversary as a civic education hub:
Civic holidays
Throughout 2013, the Center will be a hub of activity during civic holidays, featuring fun, family-friendly programs designed to honor America’s past and inspire active citizenship.
PBS CONSTITUTION USA Documentary Series
On April 22, the National Constitution Center and WHYY will present an advance screening of the new PBS series CONSTITUTION USA. The screening will be followed by a special Q&A with filmmaker and director Stephen Ives and historian and National Constitution Center Trustee Richard Beeman.
Developed by the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning team of tpt National Productions and Insignia Films, CONSTITUTION USA is hosted by Peter Sagal, who travels the country by motorcycle to explore the Constitution and its enduring role in Americans’ daily lives.
The National Constitution Center’s education staff played a central role in the production of the series and the development of online educational resources; the Center is featured in the production, along with affiliated scholars Dr. Richard Beeman and Dr. Akhil Reed Amar. The series also features students from Philadelphia’s Constitution High School, the history- and civics-themed school created through a groundbreaking partnership between the School District of Philadelphia, the National Constitution Center, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, and Ballard Spahr LLP.
Independence Week Celebration
On July 2, join the National Constitution Center as we celebrate our milestone 10th anniversary as the museum of “We the People” and kick off an All-American Celebration on the Mall. The big day will be jam-packed with festive activities and fascinating programs for all ages and interests. Plus, museum admission is FREE courtesy of Wawa as the city celebrates Wawa Hoagie Day, part of Wawa Welcome America! The day’s events include:
- Wawa Hoagie Day Exhibits & Programs »
- Finding the Founders »
- Weeklong Independence Day Programs »
- Supreme Court Review 2013 »
- The 1968 Exhibit »
Plus, from July 2 to 7, enjoy fun, family-friendly Independence Day activities, including Colonial-era demonstrations, interactive educational programs, and patriotic craft stations. All programs are FREE with museum admission!
Constitution Day
As part of our annual Constitution Day extravaganza, the Center will unveil a special episode of the popular webcast series Constitution Hall Pass, highlighting the legislative branch. Last year’s Constitution Day Hall Pass episode was seen by over one million viewers. The 2013 Constitution Hall Pass is supported in part by The Hearst Foundation, Inc.
A National Town Hall
In 2013, the Center celebrates is 10th anniversary as a national town hall:
2013 Town Hall Programs
During its 10-year history as America’s town hall, the Center has welcomed political leaders, constitutional scholars, best-selling authors, and many other celebrities for timely, compelling discussions and debates. The 2013 Program Series features an all-star lineup of speakers, including former Vice President Al Gore, California Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, and Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Sandra Day O’Connor. Check our calendar for newly added programs and town hall discussions on the latest constitutional issues.
Visiting Scholar
In addition, through a joint partnership with the University of Pennsylvania Law School, the Center has appointed former congressman, author, lecturer, and vice president of the Aspen Institute Mickey Edwards as a visiting scholar for 2013.
Constitution Daily
Our popular Constitution Daily blog is providing smart, nonpartisan analysis of this year’s most controversial constitutional issues, including gun control, gay marriage, and privacy—and inviting “We the People” to join the conversation.
An Interactive Museum
In 2013, the Center celebrates is 10th anniversary as an interactive museum:
Feature exhibition: The 1968 Exhibit
As the museum of “We the People” celebrates its 10th anniversary, look back at a pivotal year when citizens exercised their freedoms in extraordinary new ways. Don’t miss The 1968 Exhibit, on view from June 14 to September 2.
Discover—or rediscover—our main exhibition
Whether visiting the National Constitution Center for the first time or getting reacquainted, it’s a great year to attend a live performance of Freedom Rising or Living News and take a walk through Signers’ Hall. Inside our main exhibition, The Story of We the People, look for newly updated experiences, including voting booths where you can take part in “fantasy elections” between presidents from Harry Truman to Barack Obama.
150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and Gettysburg Address
The Emancipation and Its Legacies panel show, developed by Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, will be on display beginning in March through June 19, 2013—a date also known as Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
In addition, the Civil War section of the main exhibition will be refreshed to include new cases that house two must-see Civil War artifacts: a copy of a rare printing of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by Abraham Lincoln, and Lincoln’s signature in an autograph book from the dedication of the Gettysburg Cemetery—the only known signature of Lincoln from the day he delivered his Gettysburg Address. Both of these artifacts are generously on loan from private collections. Funding for this project was provided in part by The McLean Contributionship.
Free admission days
Through a generous gift from PwC US and The PwC Charitable Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public charity, the Center also will offer a series of free admission days throughout 2013. PwC is the Center’s 2013 Diversity Sponsor and their support allows the Center to celebrate “We the People” while demonstrating how the definition of the phrase has expanded over the course of U.S. history.
Free admission days courtesy of PwC will take place on Sunday, March 24, 2013 and Tuesday, October 8, 2013. PwC also will provide programming support for the Center’s Women’s History Month (Friday, March 1 – Sunday, March 31, 2013), and Hispanic Heritage Month (Sunday, September 15, 2013 – Tuesday, October 15, 2013).
10th Anniversary Celebration
Join the National Constitution Center as we celebrate our milestone 10th anniversary as the museum of “We the People.” Since opening on July 4, 2003—steps from where the Constitution was signed in Historic Philadelphia—the Center has engaged millions around the world as the first and only interactive museum, national town hall, and civic education hub devoted to the Constitution and its legacy of freedom. Be a part of history as we look back at an extraordinary decade and launch the next.
Learn about the Center’s mission and history here.
Check out how the Center is celebrating this exciting milestone as:
July 2: All-American Celebration on the Mall
Join the National Constitution Center as we celebrate our milestone 10th anniversary as the museum of “We the People” and kick off an All-American Celebration on the Mall. The big day will be jam-packed with festive activities and fascinating programs for all ages and interests. Plus, museum admission is FREE courtesy of Wawa as the city celebrates Wawa Hoagie Day, part of Wawa Welcome America! The day’s events include:
- Wawa Hoagie Day Exhibits & Programs »
- Finding the Founders »
- Weeklong Independence Day Programs »
- Supreme Court Review 2013 »
- The 1968 Exhibit »
SPONSORS
Museum admission on July 2 is free courtesy of Wawa.
Finding the Founders has been supported in part by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, the Federal-State Partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Wawa Hoagie Day Exhibits & Programs
Finding the Founders
Weeklong Independence Day Programs
All-American Celebration on the Mall
Can We Talk ... About Race?
A Nation Divided: The Second Amendment After Newtown
Constitution Check: Who has First Amendment rights in the workplace?
Town Hall Wall: A Matter of Matrimony
Town Hall Wall: Definition of Marriage
Town Hall Wall: Coming to America
Town Hall Wall: An Alien Notion
Town Hall Wall: Religious Test
Town Hall Wall: An Indecent Proposal
Town Hall Wall: An Evolving Debate
Town Hall Wall: “Under God” Under Debate
Town Hall Wall: Birth of a New Precedent?
Town Hall Wall: Capital Gains
Town Hall Wall: The Choice Is Yours
Town Hall Wall: Primary Choices
Town Hall Wall: Picture Perfect
Town Hall Wall: Electoral Mandate
Town Hall Wall: College Exam
Town Hall Wall: Capital Crimes
Town Hall Wall: Armed Conflict
Jeffrey Rosen
Jeffrey Rosen is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Constitution Center, the first and only nonprofit, nonpartisan institution devoted to the most powerful vision of freedom ever expressed: the U.S. Constitution. He is a professor at The George Washington University Law School, where he has taught since 1997, and is the legal affairs editor of The New Republic, which covers politics and culture from an “unbiased and thought-provoking perspective.” He is a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, where he explores issues involving the future of technology and the Constitution. He has recorded a lecture series for the Teaching Company’s Great Courses on Privacy, Property, and Free Speech: Law and the Constitution in the 21st Century.
Rosen is a highly regarded journalist whose essays and commentaries have appeared in the New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic Monthly, on National Public Radio, and in The New Yorker, where he has been a staff writer. The Chicago Tribune named him one of the 10 best magazine journalists in America and a reviewer for the Los Angeles Times called him "the nation's most widely read and influential legal commentator.” He received the 2012 Golden Pen Award from the Legal Writing Institute for his “extraordinary contribution to the cause of better legal writing.”
Since 2000, he has served as a moderator at The Aspen Institute, an educational and policy studies organization with a mission to foster leadership based on enduring values and to provide a nonpartisan venue for dealing with critical issues. At Aspen, Rosen moderates panels and conducts seminars on technology and the Constitution, privacy, and free speech and democracy.
He is the author of several books including The Supreme Court: The Personalities and Rivalries that Defined America; The Most Democratic Branch: How the Courts Serve America; The Naked Crowd: Reclaiming Security and Freedom in an Anxious Age; and The Unwanted Gaze: The Destruction of Privacy in America. His most recent book, as co-editor, is Constitution 3.0: Freedom and Technological Change. Books about Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis and President William Howard Taft are forthcoming.
Rosen is a graduate of Harvard College; Oxford University, where he was a Marshall Scholar; and Yale Law School.
Topics:
Constitutional Law
Constitution in the 21st Century
Technology and the Constitution
Supreme Court
Town Hall Wall: School Colors
Town Hall Wall: Equal Measures
The History of Memorial Day
The History of Flag Day
The Exchange: Is the Constitution colorblind?
The Exchange: Should the United States Reduce Immigration?
The Exchange: Should the Government Make Sure That Every American Has Affordable Health Insurance?
The Exchange: Should Same-Sex Couples Have the Right to Marry?
The Exchange: Should a Year of National Service Be Required for All Americans?
The Exchange: Can Government Prohibit Citizens from Owning Handguns?
The Exchange: Are the Principles of the U.S. Constitution Reflected in Your School?
West Wing Wednesday: Top 5 constitutional mistakes
How Philly lost the nation’s capital to Washington
Constitution Check: Whose constitutional rights are at stake in the IRS scandal?
10 European colonies in America that failed before Jamestown
Meet the agency that blew the whistle on the IRS
A Pennsylvania example for our times
At the Convention: What’s this meeting in Philadelphia?
The Mexican-American war in a nutshell
Animal cruelty video laws present a First Amendment debate
Presidents and trains: Tools of power and symbolism
Forget about drones: Are robots the next privacy threat?
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A connection between plastic guns and homegrown marijuana
Constitution Check: Will same-sex marriage momentum influence the Supreme Court?
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Center gets a new CEO
As new leader of Constitution Center, Rosen plans to boost and broaden debate
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Part-Time Audiovisual Technician
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Honor Fallen Military Heroes This Memorial Day Weekend at the National Constitution Center
HR & Administration
Thank-A-Vet Postcards
Constitution Check: What is the government’s role on teen sex?
Happy birthday, 27th Amendment!
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Sign Online
This will be the form to sign online. The confirmation page invites people to share thier signing on Facebook and Twitter.
Sign the Constitution
Visit the National Constitution Center and Sign In-person
This copy invites the visitor to visit the NCC in person, where they can sign the Constitution and much more.
Can't Visit Us? Then Sign the Constitution Online
This copy explains that, if the person can't come in person, they can sign the Constitution online and post it to Facebook.
Jeffrey Rosen named president and CEO of the National Constitution Center
Jeffrey Rosen Named President & CEO of the National Constitution Center
President and CEO
Hello,
I'm Jeffrey Rosen, and I’m thrilled and humbled to be introducing myself to you as the new president and CEO of the National Constitution Center.
This is an extraordinary time for the Center—which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary as the museum of “We the People.” As we look toward the decade ahead, our mission is as timely and important as ever—to illuminate constitutional ideals, inspire active citizenship, and celebrate freedom.
One of the highest privileges of citizenship is an opportunity to participate in a conversation about what the Constitution means.
As a museum, we welcome visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore the history and relevance of the Constitution through innovative exhibitions, rare artifacts, and hands-on activities.
We aspire to be America’s town hall—the place where citizens can gather, hear the best arguments on both sides of any constitutional issue, and make up their own minds. As debates about the meaning of constitutionalism spread around the globe, we aspire to be an international town hall as well. I look forward to working with the Center to host these constitutional debates in Philadelphia, on the Internet, on radio and television, and around the world.
There’s no institution in the world I’d rather lead, because moderating and convening bipartisan conversations about the Constitution is my great passion. As a teacher of constitutional law, I begin our discussions with a simple rule: in a constitutional conversation, all of us have to make constitutional arguments, not political arguments. Citizens have strong disagreements about politics, but all of us can learn enough about constitutional arguments—about the text, history, and structure of the Constitution and Bill of Rights—to debate even the most hotly contested issues in constitutional terms. And sometimes, at the end of a constitutional conversation, we find that our political and constitutional conclusions diverge, which is when we know we’re being guided by our highest principles and ideals.
The Constitution continues to be at the heart of our nation’s most contentious issues, from immigration to health care to gun rights. Every week and every day, there’s a new political issue that raises constitutional questions—from surveillance cameras and drones to free speech on the Internet.
But in a polarized age, there are too few opportunities for people on opposite sides of a constitutional question to gather together for civil debate. As a law professor and journalist, I’ve long admired the Center as a great institution that provides a unique national forum for precisely this kind of bipartisan education and debate. And I hope you will think of the Center as the place where you can turn to educate yourselves about the best arguments on both sides of any constitutional question, so that you can decide for yourself.
I’m very much looking forward to coming to Philadelphia and experiencing all this great city has to offer. I hope to meet you and speak with you at an upcoming exhibition, debate, program, or event.
Thank you for your interest in learning about the National Constitution Center. And, most importantly, thank you for your interest in learning about the Constitution.
Sincerely yours,
Jeffrey Rosen
Read more about Jeffrey Rosen »
Hear Jeffrey Rosen’s vision for the National Constitution Center »
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Left Column—EITC
In search of the 28th amendment to the Constitution
Business EITC Contributions
New Guidelines for the EITC Program 2013
- Businesses apply online—it’s easy!
- Businesses submit renewal applications on May 15, 2013—businesses that are new to the EITC program submit an application online on July 1, 2013.
- Businesses can pass through tax credits—partnership and limited liability businesses can pass-through tax credits to individual partners.
- Total tax credits increased—PA funding for EITC tax credits was increased to $100 million this year!
- Tax credits limit increased—an individual business can apply for up to $750,000 in tax credits (from $400,000 last year).
The National Constitution Center, the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit program, and you: Reduce your business’s tax liability by up to 90 percent of the value of your donation!
The Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) is administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development. Tax credits for up to 90 percent of the contribution amount can be awarded to operating businesses that make contributions to the National Constitution Center’s educational improvement programs that provide civic literacy and citizen engagement programs to underserved Philadelphia students.
The Center’s youth-based programs bring the story of “We the People” to life for students of all grade levels through immersive experiences, innovative programs, standards-based lesson plans, and other resources that align with school curricula. Our Young Citizens Scholarship and Traveling History & Civics programs make it possible for students from underserved communities and financially disadvantaged school districts to visit the Center to participate in the programs and exhibits at the Center and to participate in onsite interactive programming at their schools.
Young Citizens Scholarship Program
More than 16,000 underserved K–12 students visited the Center last year through the Young Citizens Scholarship Program. The Center’s active outreach efforts seek to ensure that financial considerations are not a barrier to participating in our programs. Significant organizational resources are devoted to outreach and program development for teachers and students in grades K–12, and the Center works closely with schools, districts, and educational organizations throughout the region to ensure that the students’ experiences with the Center’s programs are connected to their classroom curriculum.
The Young Citizens Scholarship Program funds group visits to the National Constitution Center from Title I schools—schools identified by the federal government as serving high concentrations of families in poverty and students at risk. Scholarships make it possible for students at underserved schools to participate in the programs and exhibits at the Center—such as the live, multimedia theatrical performances Freedom Rising and Living News—as well as providing bus transportation from their schools to the Center.
Traveling History & Civics Program
The Traveling History & Civics Program last year brought the National Constitution Center’s interactive civic education directly into classrooms and school auditoriums for more than 10,000 underserved students at local Title I schools. Designed to educate and excite K–12 students about history and encourage active participation in their community and government, the program uses historical artifacts, costumes, engaging activities, and the Center’s experienced and knowledgeable educators to bring American history, government, and civics to life.
Traveling History & Civics experiences include a 45- to 60-minute hands-on presentation, pre- and post-visit materials, and handouts. The Center offers a range of programs adapted for different grade levels, such as the Breaking Barriers show, in which students embark on an interactive history adventure as they learn about the lives and legacies of African Americans who broke the color barrier in literature, entertainment, government, and other fields.
Please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), Annual Giving Manager, for more information about supporting the National Constitution Center's mission of illuminating constitutional ideals and inspiring active citizenship with a Pennsylvania EITC-eligible gift.
More information: PA Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Business Guidelines
