On September 17, 1787, the Founding Fathers signed the Constitution, marking one of the most important historical moments in U.S. history. What does Constitution Day have to do with health care? Well, in August we saw the Constitution thrown around in confusing ways by opponents to health reform. Today, on the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, we should celebrate its creation and reflect on its purpose.
The Founding Fathers state this purpose in the preamble—“…in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.â€
While our country was founded on the principles of establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, and promoting general welfare, many people can’t get the care they need when they are sick. Americans are finding themselves one pink slip or serious illness away from going bankrupt due to medical expenses. With rapidly increasing costs, Americans are paying more for less. The current state of the health care system calls for action, as the principles the Founding Fathers established with the Constitution have been severely compromised. So today, as we celebrate the anniversary of the Constitution, we should fulfill its vision of a more perfect Union. Let’s pass comprehensive health insurance reform this year.