We will refer to the US Constitution and to US federal law in an age-appropriate manner. We will not discuss current politics or political opinions in this class. While we will discuss the concept of slavery, it’s inclusion in the original Constitution, and the 13th Amendment which outlawed slavery, but we will also discuss one the fact that the 13th Amendment does not outlaw slavery as punishment for a crime. We will also discuss the Electoral College and the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact which has been proposed as an alternative way of electing a President.

My own beliefs and opinions will not be discussed at all in this class. We will focus on the language of the Constitution. Any questions from learners that raise political issues or discussions will be gently redirected to the actual language in the Constitution, the 13th Amendment, and the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Any questions from learners regarding the subject matter can be asked orally, or can be asked in the chat, but I will answer questions orally for the benefit of the entire class.