Eleanor Finch
Young adults have constitutional rights, and the National Rifle Association of America (NRA) is taking a stand to defend them. Since 2018, Florida has banned 18-20-year-olds from purchasing firearms, with violations resulting in harsh penalties. The NRA filed a lawsuit in 2021, arguing that the ban violates the Second Amendment, but the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ban. Now, the NRA is petitioning the Supreme Court to hear the case, asserting that young adults are considered adults in various other contexts and have the right to defend themselves. The NRA's Petition for Certiorari highlights the split among federal circuit courts regarding the Second Amendment rights of adults under 21. This case raises important questions about the constitutional rights of young adults and the interpretation of the Second Amendment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age group | 18-20 years |
| Subject | Right to bear arms |
| Current status | Banned in Florida |
| Penalty | 5 years' imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000, or both |
| NRA's stance | Ban violates the Second Amendment |
| Court's ruling | The ban does not violate the Second Amendment |
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What You'll Learn
Framing the constitution in a modern context
The United States Constitution was designed by its framers to be enduring, addressing both the specific challenges facing the nation during their lifetimes and establishing foundational principles to guide the new nation into an uncertain future. The Framers' Constitution found expression in the modern era through a series of Supreme Court opinions in the 1930s and '40s.
The interpretation of the Constitution has evolved over time, reflecting an ever-changing society. The Framers understood that future generations would be responsible for giving concrete meaning to its broad principles, entrusting them with the task of adapting these principles to new contexts. Chief Justice John Marshall's understanding of the Constitution almost two centuries ago acknowledged its enduring nature and the need for interpretation in a dynamic societal landscape.
The Framers' Constitution recognises that in a self-governing society, courts should generally defer to the preferences of the majority. This judicial modesty is a crucial tenet of principled constitutionalism, even as courts retain the power to review governmental actions to prevent arbitrariness or unreasonableness. The Framers viewed majority rule as the best system of government while also recognising its imperfections.
The Federalist Papers, written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison, advocated for the ratification of the Federal Constitution. They outlined the benefits of a stronger federal government and discussed the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation. These essays provide valuable insights into the intentions and principles that guided the framing of the Constitution.
The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787, also known as Farrand's Records, offer a detailed documentary record of the Constitutional Convention. They include notes taken by James Madison, letters from participants, and various constitutional plans proposed during the convention. These records, along with the Journals of the Continental Congress, provide a comprehensive insight into the framing process and the intentions of the Framers.
By understanding the Framers' Constitution and interpreting its principles for the modern context, we can ensure that the Constitution remains relevant and adaptable to the challenges and crises of our time, just as its framers envisioned.
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Using social media to explain the constitution
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and it can be a powerful tool for educating young adults about the Constitution. Here are some ways to use social media to explain the Constitution and engage young adults:
Creative and Interactive Content
Creating engaging and interactive content is key to capturing the attention of young adults on social media. This can include short videos, infographics, animations, or even TikTok-style reels that simplify and explain complex constitutional concepts in a fun and memorable way. For example, a short video explaining the Bill of Rights with animated visuals and a catchy tune can make learning more enjoyable and accessible.
Relate Constitutional Principles to Current Events
Connect constitutional principles to current events and issues that young adults care about. For instance, when discussing freedom of speech, reference recent examples of controversial speeches or protests and explain how the First Amendment protects these rights. By showing how the Constitution is relevant to their lives and the issues they care about, young adults will be more inclined to engage and understand its importance.
Host Q&A Sessions and Polls
Host live Q&A sessions on Instagram or Twitter Spaces to answer young adults' questions about the Constitution. This creates a safe and interactive space for them to ask questions anonymously and encourages real-time discussions. Additionally, use polls to gauge their understanding and gather feedback on the content you're sharing. This interactivity will make learning more dynamic and help you tailor your content to their needs.
Collaborate with Influencers and Content Creators
Partner with social media influencers and content creators who have a large following of young adults. Collaborating with these influencers can help explain constitutional concepts in a relatable way. For example, a popular YouTuber could create a video series on "The Constitution and Your Rights as a Content Creator." This strategy leverages the influence and trust that young adults have in their favourite online personalities.
Encourage User-Generated Content and Sharing
Encourage young adults to create and share their own content related to the Constitution. This could be in the form of essay contests, meme creation, or even constitutional debate competitions hosted on social media. Sharing their own content and engaging with their peers can foster a deeper understanding and interest in the subject.
Provide Interactive Learning Tools
Create interactive learning tools, such as quizzes, games, or simulated court cases, that allow young adults to apply constitutional principles. For example, a choose-your-own-adventure-style game on Instagram Stories could present users with scenarios where they must make decisions based on their constitutional rights.
By utilizing these strategies, social media can become a powerful tool for educating young adults about the Constitution in a way that is accessible, engaging, and interactive.
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Analysing the constitution's relevance today
The US Constitution remains relevant today, especially when it comes to young adults. The Constitution outlines the rights and responsibilities of US citizens, and it is essential that young adults understand their rights and how to exercise them.
One example of the Constitution's relevance to young adults is the ongoing debate around gun control. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has been fighting to defend the constitutional rights of young adults to purchase firearms. Since 2018, Florida has banned 18- to 20-year-olds from purchasing any firearms, with violations resulting in harsh penalties. The NRA challenged this ban, arguing that it violates the Second Amendment rights of young adults to keep and bear arms. The case is currently pending before the US Supreme Court, with the NRA petitioning for a review of the lower court's decision.
The NRA's argument centres on the interpretation of "the people" mentioned in the Second Amendment. They contend that young adults aged 18 to 20 are indeed "the people" and are therefore protected by the Second Amendment. This interpretation has been supported by legal scholars and a previous ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which found that a similar ban on handgun sales to young adults was unconstitutional.
The Supreme Court's decision in this case will have significant implications for gun control laws across the nation. It will also shape how young adults understand and exercise their constitutional rights. This case demonstrates how the Constitution remains a living document, open to interpretation and evolving to meet the needs and challenges of a changing society.
Additionally, the Constitution's relevance extends beyond Second Amendment rights. Young adults should also be aware of their rights to free speech, due process, equal protection under the law, and privacy, among others. Understanding these rights empowers young people to engage in civic life, question authority, and hold the government accountable. The Constitution provides a framework for resolving disputes and ensuring that everyone's rights are respected and protected.
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Teaching the constitution in schools
The program encourages civic participation and constitutional dialogue by providing students with an understanding of their constitutional rights and responsibilities. Lesson plans are provided by ACS and are designed to be engaging and interactive. For example, students may be asked to create a Founders' Social Network by assigning each student a Founding Father and having them fill out a profile and likes section. They then browse other profiles to determine who their founder would likely be "friends" with, gaining insight into the relationships between the Founders and how these influenced the Constitution.
Another lesson plan focuses on the "Six Big Ideas" of the Constitution. Students analyze the text of the Constitution in a variety of ways, examining primary sources to identify their relationship to its central ideas. They also apply their understanding of these ideas to actual documents created by the federal government, acting as historians to determine how the documents relate to the Big Ideas. Through these exercises, students gain a deeper understanding of the major ideas underpinning the U.S. government and how they relate to today's political issues.
By bringing constitutional lessons into classrooms, ACS's "Constitution in the Classroom" program helps to make constitutional values relevant and engaging for students. It provides an opportunity to excite young minds about their rights and responsibilities, fostering a sense of civic engagement and dialogue that is essential for a healthy democracy.
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Making the constitution accessible
Firstly, it is crucial to present the information in a relatable and understandable manner. Young adults are more likely to engage with content that is relevant to their lives and presented in a clear, concise manner. Avoid legal jargon and complicated language, and instead, use simple, everyday language to explain the Constitution's principles, rights, and amendments. This ensures that young people can understand and apply these concepts to their own experiences.
Secondly, utilise modern communication platforms and media that young people are familiar with. This could include creating educational videos, podcasts, or social media campaigns that explore different aspects of the Constitution. For example, a video series could be created, with each episode focusing on a different amendment, featuring young people discussing how it impacts their lives. Social media platforms can be used to share bite-sized information, infographics, or even memes that spark interest and conversation about the Constitution.
Thirdly, encourage interactive and hands-on learning experiences. Organise workshops, debates, or role-playing activities that allow young adults to actively engage with the content. For instance, a workshop could be designed where participants simulate a court case, with groups acting as lawyers and judges, deliberating and deciding on a specific amendment. This type of interactive learning helps young people develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the Constitution's impact.
Additionally, connect the Constitution to current events and social issues that young people care about. Discuss how the Constitution relates to their everyday concerns, such as gun control or freedom of speech, encouraging civic discourse and engagement.
Lastly, provide resources and support for educators who play a vital role in teaching young people about the Constitution. Develop accessible lesson plans and educational materials to assist teachers in engaging their students effectively.
By implementing these strategies, we can make the Constitution more accessible and engaging for young adults.
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