Today marks the 231^st anniversary of the signing of the Constitution of the United States. After a long summer of debate and compromise, members of the Second Continental Congress signed their handiwork and sent the Constitution to the people of the states for ratification.

The Constitution’s purpose was and is to give a practicable form to the principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence. As Abraham Lincoln noted, the Declaration of Independence was “The assertion of that principle, at that time, was the word, ‘fitly spoken’ which has proved an ‘apple of gold’ to us.”

However, stating the principle, “Liberty to all,” only goes so far. The means by which we secure that liberty still needed to be created. The Constitution is that method by which “We the People,” promote and protect that principle. Lincoln went on to say, “The Union, and the Constitution, are the picture of silver, subsequently framed around it. The picture was made, not to conceal, or destroy the apple; but to adorn, and preserve it. The picture was made for the apple—not the apple for the picture.”

Even with a ratified Constitution, the work was not complete—the work is never complete. Both the apple and the picture frame must be properly displayed and protected. As Lincoln continued, “So let us act, that neither picture, or apple shall ever be blurred, or bruised or broken.”

Presidents, senators, representatives, judges, governors, citizens, and now unelected bureaucrats all must act to protect the principle and the structure that preserves that principle. The role of some more directly affects that goal, and the ways in which each carries out their responsibilities has changed over time, but the work takes constant vigilance.

The Buckeye Institute takes Lincoln’s charge seriously. He wrote, “[t]hat we may so act, we must study, and understand the points of danger.” In turn, we recognize that the best way we can secure both the principle of “Liberty to all” and the institutions meant to protect that principle, is by “advanc[ing] free-market public policy in the states.”

Through our work at The Buckeye Institute, we fight for policies that expand and protect our freedoms, defend free speech from those who attempt to silence diverse opinions, reign in government power and overreach, and empower citizens to follow their dreams.

The Buckeye Institute’s work in Lincoln’s words, “clears the path for all—gives hope to all—and, by consequence, enterprize, and industry to all.” That is to say, we advocate for “Liberty to all.”

And what better way to celebrate Constitution Day!

Josh Distel is the executive assistant and office manager at The Buckeye Institute.