Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
September 8, 2021
Daughters of the American Revolution, Amelia Island Chapter Regent Ms. Rebecca Mayle and Public Relations & Media Cara Curtain were in attendance at the September 7, 2021 Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) meeting to accept the Proclamation declaring Constitution Week.
Mayor Mike Lednovich read the Proclamation as follows:
WHEREAS, in 1955, the Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned Congress to annually set aside the dates of September 17 through 23 to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week in commemoration of America’s most important document; and
WHEREAS, the United States Constitution stands as a testament to the stalwart tenacity of Americans throughout history to maintain their liberties, freedoms and inalienable rights; and
WHEREAS, for more than two centuries, the Constitution has presided as the supreme law of the land, keeping our nation’s leaders true to America’s highest ideals and guaranteeing the fundamental rights that make our country a beacon of hope to all people seeking freedom and justice; and
WHEREAS, September 17, 2021, marks the 234th anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the Constitution is structurally predicated on governance by “We the People”, making citizens’ understanding of the Constitution and its framework an essential element of the future of our country and the civic health of its populate; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to accord official recognition to this magnificent document and its memorable anniversary; and to the patriotic celebrations which will commemorate the occasion.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael A. Lednovich, Mayor of the City of Fernandina Beach do hereby proclaim September 17, 2021, through September 23, 2021, to be
“CONSTITUTION WEEK”
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the City of Fernandina Beach, Florida on this 7th day of September, 2021.
Mayle thanked the City and encouraged the public to reread the Constitution “to know what it says, and what it doesn’t.”
Hope more attention is given to the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments – as well as the 1st.
Sad that the proclamation says nothing about promoting democracy. So much for the forming of a more perfect union.
For all of those, including our governor, who is more concerned about individual freedom over public health and safety, I strongly recommend they read the preamble to the Constitution. It is a call for collective action and responsibility. The word “I” is never invoked. Instead, it refers to “the common defense” and “the general welfare.” Even the phrase “secure the Blessings of Liberty” does not speak of personal freedoms, but “our” shared liberty and prosperity. It eliminates any need to ask the biblical question, “Am I my brother’s (or sister’s) keeper?” For each and every individual who claims allegiance to the Constitution, the answer should be a resounding “YES!”