The Louisiana Supreme Court Justices have issued a resolution to mark the 66th annual Law Day, encouraging judges across the state to engage in civics education within schools throughout May 2024. The resolution calls for judges to provide students with insights into the law, the judiciary's role, and the court system.
Chief Justice John L. Weimer emphasized incorporating this year's theme, "Voices of Democracy," during interactions with students and community organizations as part of the Judge in the Classroom/Students in the Courtroom Initiative. He stated, “Law Day provides an ideal opportunity to teach students about jurisprudence, the rule of law, and the valuable rights we each enjoy as citizens of Louisiana.”
Throughout May, various Law Day-themed activities will be held by the Louisiana Supreme Court. These include discussions with justices, tours of relevant judicial sites such as the Chief Justice Pascal F. Calogero, Jr. Courthouse, and visits to both the Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson Supreme Court Museum and the Law Library of Louisiana.
Judges statewide are set to visit schools and civic organizations or host students in their courtrooms. They are encouraged to use resources available on the Louisiana Supreme Court website when engaging with students. This includes a presentation by Justice Scott Crichton titled “Crime, Consequences, and the Power of Choice.”
The Judges in the Classroom/Students in the Courtroom initiative involves collaboration between several entities including the Judges in the Classroom/Students in the Courtroom Supreme Court Task Force and other educational bodies.
Law Day was initiated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958 to emphasize liberty, justice, and equality under law. It was officially designated on May 1 by Congress in 1961. Each president since has recognized this day through proclamations celebrating America's dedication to legal principles.
For further details about Law Day 2024 or related events, individuals can visit lasc.org or contact Trina S. Vincent at tvincent@lasc.org.