Every year on January 3, the United States celebrates National Write to Congress Day, a day for citizens to exercise their democratic rights. It is crucial to write to representatives at the state and federal levels, expressing all concerns. Small business owners can also write to their elected officials to express their concerns about recent legislation that may affect them. It is our responsibility as citizens who elected them to hold them accountable.
HISTORY
The Congress is the legislative branch of the United States of America, which was founded in New York in 1789 under the Constitution before moving to Philadelphia in 1790. It is bicameral, which means it has two houses: the Senate, which is elected by state legislatures, and the House of Representatives, which is elected by the people. The First United States Congress laid the groundwork, establishing government departments, passing the Bill of Rights, and electing the first president. The national capital was relocated to Washington, D.C. in 1800.
The war with Great Britain in 1812 cost the country a lot of money and caused a lot of damage. British forces invaded Washington, D.C. in 1814 and set fire to public Congress buildings, including the Capitol. By 1912, America had grown to be a 48-state union and the world's most powerful nation. Members of Congress moved into their first permanent office buildings, making congressional service a full-time occupation in comparison to the 19th century's infrequent meetings. Members of the House of Representatives serve for two years, according to Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution. After each two-year Congress, the new Representatives must elect a new Speaker and officers, as well as adopt the chamber's rules of procedure. The Constitution also establishes a date for the new Congress to convene, which is noon on January 3 unless the previous Congress set a different date by law. This day is designated as National Write to Congress Day to coincide with the constitutional opening day of each new Congress.
Congressman Higgins established National Write to Congress Day on December 30, 2005, and decided that it would be observed annually on January 3, 2006, to encourage the general public to contact their representatives via email, letter, or phone calls. Every year, the US Congress receives an estimated 86.9 million letters.