May 1 is "Law Day" in the U.S. and the Louisiana Supreme Court is marking it by inviting young people to learn about the law during the month of May.
Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson says the court issued a resolution urging all state court judges to dedicate the month to reaching out to schools to provide students with an opportunity to learn about the law, the role of judges, and the court system from members of the judiciary.
Law Day was established in 1958 by President Eisenhower to strengthen the nation's heritage of liberty, justice and equality under the law. In 1961, Congress issued a joint resolution designating May 1 as the official date for celebrating Law Day. Every president since then has issued a Law Day proclamation on May 1st to celebrate the nation’s commitment to the rule of law.
The 2017 national Law Day theme is The 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy and provides the opportunity to explore the ways the amendment has reshaped American law and society.
The amendment addresses citizenship rights and equal protection of the laws, and was proposed in response to issues related to former slaves following the American Civil War.
According to Chief Justice Johnson, “During the month of May, the Louisiana Supreme Court will host school students participating in Law Day activities including mock trials and tours of the Royal Street courthouse.
Teachers or principals interested in coordinating a Louisiana Supreme Court tour or a Law Day presentation with a local judge, should contact the Louisiana Supreme Court Community Relations Department at 504-310-2588.