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Understanding the Constitution, Executive Orders, Memorandums, and Proclamations

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As part of our Policy Unpacked series, this infographic explains the differences between the Constitution, executive orders, memorandums, and proclamations. The Constitution is the highest law and guides how power is shared in government, while executive orders and memorandums are tools the president uses to give instructions—orders must follow the Constitution and be published, but memos are less formal. Proclamations are official announcements meant to inform the public about important issues.

Infographic titled "The Constitution, Executive Orders, Memorandums, and Proclamations" by The National Center for Disability, Equity, and Intersectionality. Top section: Large heading reads: “The Constitution, Executive Orders, Memorandums, and Proclamations.” To the right is an icon of a courthouse and an open book. Section 1: What is the Constitution? Describes the Constitution as a big book of rules designed to divide power equally among branches of government. Mentions there have been only 27 amendments to help update and clarify it. Illustrated with a scroll and scales of justice. Section 2: Branches of Government: Judicial Branch: Makes the laws Legislative Branch: Enforces the laws Executive Branch: Decides if laws follow the Constitution Text emphasizes: “No law can go against the Constitution.” Section 3: What is a Proclamation? Defined as an official announcement made by someone in charge, like the president, to inform the public about something important. Includes an illustration of a person speaking at a podium. Section 4: What is a Memorandum? Defined as a document that shares important decisions or information, but is less formal than a letter. Executive memorandums: Do not follow a specific rulebook Do not need to be printed in the Federal Register Do not need to explain how they follow the Constitution Includes an image of a memo labeled “MOU.” Section 5: What is an Executive Order? Defined as a special set of rules or guidelines from the president to government workers. Comparison to laws: Laws take longer to pass Executive orders are quicker Some presidents use them instead of new laws Key points: Must follow the Constitution Must be published in the Federal Register Includes an illustration of the White House with an American flag. Footer: Logo and name of The National Center for Disability, Equity, and Intersectionality. Website: www.thinkequitable.com

Supreme Court to Decide Standard for Proving Disability Discrimination in Schools

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By Kendall Eaton, Esq. 

A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools 

On January 17, 2025, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) agreed to hear the district court case A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools out of the 9th Circuit. 

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The Constitution, Executive Orders, Memo’s and Proclamations

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By: Tracy Waller, MPH, Esq.

In this issue of Policy Unpacked, we better understand The Constitution, Executive Orders, Memorandums, and Proclamations. You can find other issues in our Policy Unpacked series here.

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