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For many of us, it is easy to forget just how fortunate we are to live in a country with a legal system designed to afford every citizen certain liberties and freedoms while holding accountable anyone that breaks the rule of law.
However, as Americans, we are accorded certain rights and privileges persons in other countries can only dream about. These liberties are due in large part to the wisdom and forethought of our founding fathers.
To honor the role of law in the creation of our country, in 1958 President Eisenhower declared May 1 as Law Day. Then, in 1969 a joint resolution of Congress designated May 1 as the official date for the celebration of Law Day.
Why May 1st Was Chosen as Law Day
May 1 is not just an arbitrary date chosen to celebrate Law Day. At the time this day was selected, the Soviet Union was a major world power. In order to display their powerful weaponry, Soviets would hold a parade on May 1 each year. By choosing the same date to celebrate the law, and how our citizens are responsible for our own rule, we show to the world the stark difference between a country ruled by democracy and one ruled by force, fear, and intimidation.
How Law Day Is Celebrated
Every year, local, state, and federal programs throughout the country celebrate Law Day. Private entities and organizations, as well as schools, join in the festivities. Ceremonies are held to recognize the role of law in our country and its importance to our democratic society.
There are typically themes that are chosen each year to focus on a certain aspect of the law. For example, the American Bar Association (ABA) has declared Law Day 2022’s theme to be “Toward a More Perfect Union: The Constitution in Times of Change.” The ABA also provides resources to schools, bar associations, and civic organizations to assist in the celebration of law day through lessons and other activities.
In some areas, organizations actually declare a week around May 1 as National Law Week and have different activities across seven days celebrating the law.
Former Law Day Themes
Law Day themes are intended to be thought-provoking and to help build an appreciation for the law as well as an understanding of its many facets. Former themes include:
- “Your Vote, Your Voice, Our Democracy: The 19th Amendment at 100”
- “Free Speech, Free Press, Free Society”
- “Separation of Powers: Framework for Freedom”
- “The Fourteenth Amendment: Transforming American Democracy”
- “Miranda: More Than Words Explored”
- “Magna Carta: Symbol of Freedom Under Law”
- “American Democracy and the Rule of Law: Why Every Vote Matters”
Contact the Attorneys at Clark Fountain
If your legal rights have been infringed upon, allow the attorneys at Clark Fountain to provide you with the assistance you require. We represent clients in a wide variety of legal matters throughout the state of Florida. You may reach us by calling 561-559-79353 or via our contact page.