Volume 3 | Issue 1
The Constitution and American Unity
A Conversation with Dr. Yuval Levin
At a time when Americans seem more divided than ever, Yuval Levin offers a compelling argument for how we can rebuild a shared national identity. Levin, the director of Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies at the American Enterprise Institute, joined the O’Connor Institute to discuss his latest book, American Covenant: How the Constitution Unified Our Nation — And Could Again, which examines the Constitutional foundations of American unity. He argues that the Constitution is more than a framework for government — it is a foundation for national cohesion, provided we remain committed to its principles. What can the Constitution teach us about restoring trust, civic responsibility, and the bonds that hold a diverse democracy together?
National Constitution Collaboration in Philadelphia
Continuing in the Constitutional spirit, the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, National Constitution Center, and Organization of American Historians are collaborating to host a week-long summer workshop in Philadelphia for grades 6 through 12 social studies teachers. Featuring top experts — Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center; David Blight, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian; and Akhil Amar, Yale Law professor and one of the nation’s foremost constitutional scholars — the program will explore the history and impact of the U.S. Constitution. The O'Connor Institute is pleased to provide travel, lodging, and most meals for these civics educators.
Civics 101 Micro-Lesson: The U.S. Constitution and Its Enduring Significance
In roughly 10 minutes, you can unearth the bedrock of American democracy with our immersive lesson that includes the supreme law of the land, a testament to the founding principles of the nation. Delve into the origins, structure, and pivotal provisions of the U.S. Constitution, including the revered Bill of Rights and vital amendments. Gain a profound understanding of its monumental impact on American governance and the cherished individual freedoms we hold dear.
Sandra Day O’Connor and the American Criminal Justice System
On June 29, 2009, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor participated in an Aspen Ideas Festival panel discussion titled Race and the American Criminal Justice System. Joined by leading legal scholars and practitioners, Justice O'Connor discussed racial disparities in sentencing and jury selection, and the broader challenges in ensuring equal justice under the law. Referring to significant sentences for nonviolent, drug-related crimes, she said, "... we just have to make a decision in this country, whether we want to continue that pattern or not. Other nations are not doing it ... I do advocate examining our system to see if we need these long mandatory minimum sentences." Explore this and other conversations at the O'Connor Digital Library.
