Washington, D.C. (December 15, 2025) -- The Government Relations Association (GRA) calls on all Americans to recognize today’s anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights, a cornerstone of the United States Constitution and a defining safeguard of individual liberty.

GRA especially highlights the First Amendment, which affirms essential freedoms—speech, religion, press, and assembly—and, crucially, the people’s “right to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” This right forms the bedrock of professional advocacy and civic engagement, the very work GRA’s members undertake every day on behalf of the public.

On December 15, 1791, the Bill of Rights was officially adopted when Virginia became the 11th state to ratify the amendments, fulfilling the three-fourths requirement. These first ten amendments, added three years after the Constitution’s adoption, strengthened the nation’s foundational charter by protecting individual liberties and limiting centralized governmental power.

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, GRA encourages all Americans to deepen their understanding of our system of government and the proud history that shapes it. The Bill of Rights ensures that every citizen has a voice—and a role—in advocating, informing, and petitioning their government.