West Virginia, State Treasurer, John Purdue speaks to a crowd of citizens present to celebrate Constitution Day at the International Mother’s Day Shrine.

Let us, “Celebrate the anniversary of a guiding force for our country- the United States Constitution,” were the words spoken by West Virginia, State Treasurer, John Perdue.

Perdue visited the International Mother’s Day Shrine on Thursday, September 17, 2009 to encourage Americans everywhere to join in the celebration of Constitution Day. Perdue first, acknowledged the International Mother’s Day Shrine for the continued efforts in honoring and preserving the mother’s of our nation.

In addition, Perdue also recognized the hard work and dedication of the true “Scholar” of the Constitution, Senator, Robert C. Byrd. And as a result of Byrd’s diligence and ongoing efforts in Congress, made possible the celebration of Constitution Day. This is a day set aside for the American people to reflect on those guiding principles of this country.

The inspirational speech made mention to the history of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, ratifications and the additional amendments made over the past two centuries.

More importantly, that the Constitution encompasses the rights for all people. The rights of all people are extended to every man and woman, rich or poor, color or religion; that its provisions therein, affords us the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly, freedom to vote, freedom to bare arms, just to name a few. In addition, it maintains the checks and balances of the federal, state and local governments. It allows us to protect and protest, it opens doors for new possibilities, opportunities and necessary compromise, creates power and requires awesome responsibility.

In conclusion, Perdue urged all American’s to include others, to exercise their rights and freedom in the future.

Perdue was presented with a commemorative coffee mug and plate from the Mother’s Day Shrine. In attendance were approximately forty persons. All enjoyed a plentiful reception.