Two hundred and fifty years after the founding of the United States, President Donald J. Trump has issued a proclamation marking December 15, 2025, as Bill of Rights Day. The proclamation highlights the ratification of the Bill of Rights and its role in establishing key freedoms and legal protections for Americans.
President Trump’s statement reflects on the historical context in which the Bill of Rights was created. He notes that after gaining independence from British rule, the framers of the Constitution identified ten essential protections against government overreach. James Madison, known as the Father of the Constitution, initially questioned whether a written bill of rights would be effective but was persuaded by Thomas Jefferson’s argument: “A bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, general or particular, and what no just government should refuse or rest on inference.”
The first Congress drafted these amendments in 1789 before sending them to the states for ratification. These amendments established freedoms such as free speech and worship, the right to bear arms, protection against unlawful arrest and seizure, assurance of a fair trial, and safeguards against cruel punishment. The amendments also affirmed that powers not granted to the federal government remain with the states.
President Trump emphasized that these principles remain central to American law and governance more than two centuries later. He stated that simply writing these rights into law was not enough; their preservation depends on core values like separation of powers, due process, checks and balances, state sovereignty, and above all a moral citizenry.
He further said: “Every day, my Administration is acting with strength and conviction to guard these freedoms, the meaning of American citizenship, and our constitutional heritage. We are restoring the rule of law, fighting back against left-wing lawfare, cleaning up our corrupt bureaucracies and draining the swamp, and forever ensuring that the American people do not answer to Washington, Washington answers to the American people.”
As part of his proclamation for Bill of Rights Day 2025, President Trump called upon Americans—especially teachers and school administrators—to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
“As we approach 250 glorious years of American independence next year,” he stated, “we proudly carry forward the legacy forged by our Founders in the crucible of revolution. We renew our commitment to always upholding the common good and dignity of the human person—and above all, we pledge to preserve the promise of a proud, free, self-governing Republic for ourselves and our posterity.”
The proclamation concludes with President Trump officially designating December 15 as Bill of Rights Day for 2025.
