The College of Staten Island marked Constitution Day on September 17 with a thought-provoking lecture, “Constitution Day: Global Perspectives,” presented as part of this year’s World on Wednesday series. The event was co-sponsored by the Center for Global Engagement, the HSS Council of Interdisciplinary Programs, and the American Studies program, and drew a packed audience eager to explore the enduring impact of constitutional frameworks around the world.
The program featured remarks from Dr. Sarolta Takács, Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), and Dr. Phillippe Marius, Associate Professor of Anthropology, who examined the comparative histories of constitutions in Switzerland, France, and Haiti. The speakers highlighted how these documents, while rooted in specific national experiences, share common ties with the U.S. Constitution and reflect broader global struggles for liberty, equality, and democracy.
The discussion also underscored the unique significance of the U.S. Constitution, which is the oldest written national constitution still in use today. Adopted in 1787, the document established the framework for American government and has since inspired constitutional movements across the globe. Constitution Day, observed annually on September 17, commemorates the signing of the Constitution and serves as a national reminder of its role in safeguarding democratic governance.
The event was this semester’s first installment of CSI’s World on Wednesday series, which brings international speakers and cultural programming to campus throughout the academic year. Upcoming collaborations between the Center for Global Engagement and the HSS interdisciplinary programs include celebrations for Black History Month, the Lunar New Year, and other globally focused events.
Reflecting on the program, HSS Faculty Fellow Professor Jane Marcus-Delgado noted, “We are excited to work with the Center for Global Engagement in shedding light on CSI’s excellent, dynamic interdisciplinary programs. We hope these events will encourage students to learn more about the College’s many offerings from across all areas of the humanities and social sciences.”
Stephen Ferst, Executive Director of the Center for Global Engagement, echoed that sentiment: “Constitution Day celebrates the foundational document that underpins our democracy and serves as an aspirational document to people across the globe. It was wonderful to have Drs. Takács and Marius kick off the World on Wednesday series with their perspectives on the importance of engaging in democracy across the globe.”
