Constitution Day
Constitution Day is a national holiday held annually in the South Sea Islands on April 2nd.
The holiday was first observed in 1730 to mark the end of the 1720s Constitutional Crisis, with the date chosen to coincide with the 1726 referendum on the monarchy.
Background
The South Sea Islands endured a period of political turmoil during the early 1720s, culminating with the constitutional referendum of 1726. The question on the ballot was whether the South Sea Islands should remain a constitutional monarchy or become a republic.
The result was overwhelming support for the continuation of the Monarchy of the South Sea Islands.
Purpose of the holiday
While some feared that the holiday could become a triumphalist celebration for monarchists, the Government of the South Sea Islands was (and is) keen to underscore the day’s official meaning.
The 1726 Constitutional Referendum reinforced the idea that the population of the South Sea Islanders are the source of the Commonwealth’s sovereignty, and Constitutional Day is therefore intended as a day to celebrate democracy and national unity.
Traditions
The following traditions are typically observed during Constitution Day:
- Beacons are lit in communities across the South Sea Islands during the evening, creating a chain of light to visually unite the islands’ settlements.
- The South Sea Islands Defence Force conduct a ceremonial gun salute at Government House, Joseph Town at 11am each year.
- Communities organize games and competitions in public parks, followed by picnics.
- South Sea Islands are able to purchase breads, cakes, and chocolates in the shape of a letter C.
