In 1972, citizens of the state of Montana voted to adopt a new constitution, a remarkable document that guaranteed rights to a "clean and healthful environment," to privacy, to know (open meetings), to "equal protection," and to dignity, and recognized "the distinct and unique cultural heritage of American Indians." Delegates to the 1972 Constitutional Convention, who sat alphabetically and worked across party lines, hammered out the new state charter that has won praise from experts and remains in place today.
In honor of the fiftieth anniversary of the 1972 constitution, the
Montana Historical Society has created a list of resources to help you teach about the constitution (including material for grades 4-6 and 7-12.)
MHS is also dedicating its May Thursday afternoon lecture series to exploring the history, legacy, and impact of the 1972 Montana State Constitution. Talks will begin at 4:30 p.m. Attend in person at the Montana Historical Society, Helena, live stream the talks from the MHS YouTube Channel, or watch the recordings after the fact. After each talk, teachers will be able earn one OPI Renewal Unit by taking a short quiz. Find more information about the programs and speakers and links for renewal units here.
Join Us Thursdays in May at 4:30 p.m.
May 5: Rewriting Montana’s Constitution: How It Happened, with Chuck Johnson
May 12: Indian Education and the 1972 Montana Constitution: A panel discussion with Carol Juneau and Joyce Silverthorne, moderated by Mike Jetty
May 19: Women and the 1972 Constitution, with Diane Sands
May 26: Before and After the Montana Constitution of 1972: A panel discussion with Bob Brown and Dorothy Bradley, moderated by Evan Barrett
Finally, save the date for a two-day symposium, “ConCon 50: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 1972 Constitutional Convention and Adoption of the Constitution by the People,” June 15-16, 2022, at the Montana State Capitol in Helena. (Stay tuned for registration information.)
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