UAFS hosts National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day

“We the People” – three of the most recognized words in the United States were written at the Constitutional Convention nearly 240 years ago on September 17, 1787. At the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, the vision of the men responsible for writing the Constitution lives on with the celebration of Constitution Week and events to educate and encourage involvement in democracy.
From Monday, September 16, until Friday, September 20, the UAFS Democracy Project will host lectures, events, and a voter registration drive to commemorate Constitution Week.
“We look forward to celebrating Constitution Week every year,” said Dr. Williams Yamkam, an associate professor of history, social sciences, and philosophy. “We take this time to get our students to reflect on the history, structure, and importance of the U.S. Constitution. Doing so empowers our students to assess whether or not the U.S. Constitution lives up to its promises and why it is so important to get involved in the political process.”
Students, faculty, and staff who meet voter eligibility requirements can register to vote on September 17 – National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day – which comes just 50 days before the 2024 Presidential Election.
This year’s theme for Constitution Week is: “Power to the People?: The U.S. Constitution and Democracy.” All events will be held at the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center fireplace. The complete list of events includes:


Tuesday, September 17 – National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day
Voter Registration Drive
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Sebastian County Clerk’s office will assist the UAFS Democracy Project in registering students to vote. A voting machine will be available for students to experience the voting process. You can also register to vote online at www.vote.gov.
Poster Presentation
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
UAFS Democracy Project student volunteers will detail the uniqueness of this presidential race in a historical context.