UW Annual Constitution Reading

A UW Tradition

UW Libraries hosts an annual community-led reading of the US Constitution as part of the Federal requirement to provide educational programming on the US Constitution aligned with the National Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.

The event is intended as an opportunity to critically examine the historical and contemporary significance of this document and its importance within our society. Each year focusses on different themes related to the Constitution, its amendments and how these themes show up and are reflected in our everyday lives.

In addition to guest speakers, all students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to participate by reading one short section of the Constitution – approximately 1 minute of reading time each. Readers can request a specific section, or opt to have one assigned.

Sign-up to be a reader!

2026: Celebrating 250 Years of Independence

Tuesday, October 6th

Allen Library, North Lobby: 3-5PM

This year’s theme builds on the nation’s 250th celebration, or semi-quincentennial, and the topics explored in the current exhibit , America at 250: The Moments That Made Us on display now through October 7, 2026. Our fantastic guest speakers will kick things off, followed by the community reading. Sign-up to read, or just stop by and listen!

Light refreshments provided.

2026 Guest Speakers:

Jamie Mayerfeld, Professor of Political Science and Professor and Chair of Law, Societies & Justice

Mark Smith, Professor of Political Science and Adjunct Professor of Communication and Comparative Religion at the UW.

This is a public event, open to all! Instructors are encouraged to bring their classes, and staff are welcome to attend and participate with friends, family, & coworkers!

Event Contact

Questions? Contact the organizer

Cass Hartnett

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History of Constitution Day at the University of Washington

As mandated by Congress, “Each educational institution that receives Federal funds for a fiscal year shall hold an educational program on the United States Constitution on September 17 of such year for the students served by the educational institution.” – Section 111 of Division J of Pub L. 108-447.

Because the University is not in session on September 17th, the UW Libraries holds a Constitution event each year in October. Reading the Constitution each year allows us to critically examine the historical and contemporary significance this document holds within our society.

See Federal requirement for Constitution Day and more curricular resources from the Law Library of Congress.