On Wednesday, September 17, the SLCC Student Senate celebrated Constitution Day by dressing up in period costumes from the 1700’s and strolling about various campuses asking questions about the U.S. Constitution.
“The Constitution means that America has more opportunities and freedom,” says Justine Tabilgan, SLCC Senate Executive Vice President. “I see [Constitution day] as an opportunity to be more aware of the history in America.”
Once students understood her purpose and intent, Tabilgan was well-recieved. She also pointed out that sugar cookies were a great incentive, as she passed out several to those who knew the correct answers to the constitution-related questions, along with several copies of the U.S. Constitution.
“We [Student Life and Leadership] like to spice things up and let [students] know about programs or events that we offer,” says Tabilgan. “[she tries to be] an example to students that they don’t have to be afraid of being different, standing out, or being unique. The world would be boring if we were all the same.”
Tabilgan always encourages other students to get involved in activities and student leadership. She feels that in America, and here at SLCC, people of color can be in positions to make a change.
“I always seek to be better and improve,” says Tabilgan. “We need more leaders.”
Tabilgan is originally from the Philippines and moved directly to Utah five years ago. She graduated from Granger High School, where she was the Student Body Academic Vice President.
In comparison to her life here in United States, her early life had extremely limited resources.
“You have an abundance of resources and support that, in my country, we see as a blessing,” says Tabilgan.
The costumes for Constitution Day were selected by the students at a local costume shop and paid for by the SLCC Senate.
Each participating Senate member volunteers their time to educate students about the importance of this 225 year-old document and the importance of civic involvement.
There is no need to be startled when you are approached next Constitution Day by someone out of time asking “What do the stars on the flag represent?”
For more information about the U.S. Constitution, you can visit the Student Life and Leadership office or visit websites like www.history.com/topics/constitution.
