| 09/17/2007 |
| YOUR OPINION 9/17/2007 |
| Salute
a masterpiece Editor: On this day in 1787, 41 delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia put their hands to the most profoundly influential governing document in the history of mankind. Inspired by Virginia lawyer James Madison, the genius of the U.S. Constitution is confirmed every day in courts across this land. While we may argue the meaning of its provisions, the Constitution remains the greatest expression of statesmanship and self-governance ever written. It has given us the most responsive and responsible form of government the world has ever known. As we read this paper today, we should be reminded of the freedoms conferred by the Constitution, not only of the press but of the rights of the people to speak and worship freely, to elect representatives, to bear arms, to have cases heard in court by juries, and to be secure from unreasonable searches or other governmental intrusions, among other things. After 220 years, it is easy to take the Constitution for granted. However, on this anniversary of its signing, we should all at least pause and give thanks for those who have helped preserve and protect it, and enabled all of us to benefit from what the Constitution has allowed America to be. DAVID I. FALLK PRESIDENT THE COMMITTEE FOR JUSTICE FOR ALL, KINGSTON |