Understanding the United States Constitution

The United States Constitution is one of the most influential and enduring documents in human history, serving for more than two centuries as the foundation of American government and the protector of individual liberty.

Hardly a day goes by without front-page news about governmental actions and debates over whether they are constitutional. The phrase “constitutional crisis” is now frequently used by those concerned about threats to our democracy. To fully understand these current issues, it is essential to have a basic knowledge of what the United States Constitution actually says.

This talk, in recognition of Constitution Day, observed each year on September 17 to commemorate the signing of the Constitution in 1787,  provides a brief introduction to the study of the U.S. Constitution, highlighting its history and structure, reviewing several landmark Supreme Court cases interpreting the text, and exploring some of the fundamental rights embedded in this remarkable document.

Speaker Lou Ruprecht has been a practicing lawyer for over 60 years and presently is the senior partner of a trial firm in Westfield, NJ. He was an adjunct law professor for many years and continues to lecture at continuing legal education meetings. He has tried hundreds of jury cases, civil and criminal, and has argued appeals in every level of state and federal courts. 

This program is being presented in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University, which provides continuing education to individuals over 50, who are looking for an opportunity to expand their horizons, learn in an engaging environment, and meet new friends. OLLI-Rutgers offers in-person and Zoom noncredit education that is stimulating, friendly, and informal (no tests or grades). 

This lecture is a part of the program-A Taste of OLLI , 1-hour presentations offered to libraries, senior centers and other organizations that allow participants to experience a bit of an OLLI class.