This contest exists to develop a deeper appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students and to help them pay for college. Since 1938, the American Legion has awarded over three million dollars in college scholarships. Past winners have included several politicians and genuine celebrities, including former presidential candidate Alan Keyes and Moneyline host Lou Dobbs.
-- The Legionnaire  (Part One, “The Contest” )

Importance: This quote is taken from an early section of the play in which the Legionnaire describes the background and intentions of the debate competition about to be re-enacted by Heidi. It outlines the two main purposes of the competition. It is interesting to note that the two celebrities referenced by the Legionnaire, Alan Keyes and Lou Dobbs, are both noted Republicans and right-wing conservatives. This is significant because many of the Constitution-related points argued by Heidi throughout the play would likely be defined as originating in left-wing perspectives.

All persons born or naturalized...
-- Heidi  (Part One, “The Contest”)