May 1, 2025 By Miranda Weaver 3 min read

Growing up, I remember hearing the phrase “We the People” in school and thinking it sounded like the beginning of a story. It is, in a way – a story about a nation built not by kings or conquerors, but by everyday people who believed they could shape their own future. Now, as I’ve grown older and become more aware of my role as a citizen, that phrase means much more to me. It reminds me that the Constitution wasn’t just written for people in the past – it was written for all of us, and it’s still our responsibility to keep its promise alive.

This year’s Law Day theme, “The Constitution’s Promise: Out of Many, One,” really made me stop and think about what that means today. Our country was formed by thirteen separate colonies, each with their own needs, identities, and interests. But they chose to come together, united under one Constitution, to form something stronger – a single nation. That idea is still relevant now, maybe more than ever. We are a country made up of many different people with different opinions, backgrounds, and beliefs. And yet, through the Constitution, we are still bound together by shared rights and responsibilities.

For me, “Out of Many, One” means that my voice matters, but so does everyone else’s. It’s easy to feel like one person can’t make a difference, but voting, following the law, paying taxes, and even serving on a jury are ways we all contribute to the bigger picture. I saw this firsthand when my older sister was called for jury duty. She didn’t want to go at first – it felt like a hassle. But after the trial, she told me how powerful it felt to be part of a process where regular citizens decide what’s fair and just. It made me realize that participating in our democracy is how we keep it alive.

The Constitution was written 238 years ago, and while the world has changed a lot since then, the principles it stands for are still incredibly important. It hasn’t always been perfect – there have been struggles and injustices along the way – but it’s designed to grow and adapt. Amendments have expanded rights and corrected wrongs. Courts interpret it in the context of new challenges. And “We the People” still have the power to influence how it’s used.

As an American today, “Out of Many, One” reminds me that our differences don’t have to divide us – they can strengthen us if we’re willing to listen and work together. Being part of this nation means being part of something bigger than myself. It means stepping up, speaking out, and staying involved.

The Constitution’s promise isn’t just a line in a history book – it’s a living ideal. And it’s up to all of us to make sure that promise continues to include everyone.

Miranda Weaver is in the 10th grade at McGuffey High School. Her essay was the first-place winner in this year’s Law Day editorial essay contest, sponsored by the Washington County Bar Association.