On September 17, California LAW Pathways (Cal LAW) hosted its annual Constitution Day event to discuss the U.S. Constitution and its relevance today. Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, by the delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.

This virtual program was attended by 78 participants, including students, faculty, and staff from Cal LAW partner high schools, community colleges, undergraduate institutions, and law schools. Students had the opportunity to learn about career pathways in public service and the legal field.  

This year’s event explored constitutional protections, especially the Fourth and Fifth Amendments rights to due process, in the context of modern immigration enforcement in Southern California. Attorney panelists, including Mohammad Tajsar, Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU of Southern California and Rebecca Brown, Immigration Attorney from Public Counsel, discussed Vasquez Perdomo v. Noem, a class-action lawsuit challenging unconstitutional stops, arrests, and denial of access to counsel. 

The discussion brought constitutional principles into focus for students, connecting the history of the Constitution to pressing issues that directly affect communities today. The panelists emphasized the importance of civic engagement, critical thinking, and pursuing careers that advance justice and equity. Students had the opportunity to participate in the conversation and see themselves as future advocates, public servants, and leaders in the legal field.

Cal LAW, a FoundationCCC Collaborative Impact Partner, closely aligns with our strategic goal to expand student access and success as well as educational and career outcomes by promoting student-centered resources and tools.

Learn more about the Cal LAW program >