Law Day 2010 - May 1
Thu, 29 Apr 2010
Every year on May 1, Americans celebrate Law Day. Law Day is an opportunity for all Americans to reflect on the rule of law and the foundations of our legal system. It’s a time to celebrate the rich history of our judicial system and a time to consider its future in this rapidly changing world.
When he established Law Day on May 1, 1958, as “a day of national dedication to the principle of government under law,” President Dwight Eisenhower sought to highlight and honor, for all Americans, our enduring legal culture.
We must recognize that our legal institutions and system of justice depend on popular participation and support to maintain legitimate authority. Lawyers and judges should recognize that they bear a special responsibility to foster public understanding of law and legal institutions and commitment to the rule of law. On Law Day, Americans from all walks of life, public figures and private individuals alike, reaffirm in words and deeds our shared national allegiance to the rule of law.
Law in the 21st Century: Enduring Traditions, Emerging Challenges is the theme for Law Day 2010. Law Day 2010 provides us with an opportunity to understand and appreciate the emerging challenges that confront our world—and the law—in the 21st century, while reaffirming enduring legal traditions.
I encourage everyone to acknowledge the importance of our legal and judicial systems with appropriate ceremonies and activities, and to display the flag of the United States in support of this educational observance. I further encourage schools, businesses, media, religious institutions, civic, and service organizations to join me and all members of the bar and bench in commemorating Law Day.
