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By Storm Stoker
Law Day is on May 1st. President Dwight D. Eisenhower established Law Day in 1958 to celebrate the rule of law in a free society. After his experiences in WWII, he realized the perils of a society where the rule of law has broken down. Many countries observe May 1st as their Labor Day, though celebrations, huge protests and activism takes place throughout the month. Law Day in the U.S. also tends to focus on workers rights, but our official Labor Day is observed in September.
Each year Law Day has a theme focusing on various issues, particularly activism among students and workers. This year’s U.S. theme is Voices of Democracy! The theme aims to encourage people to understand and participate in our election. This year marks America’s 60th presidential election. The hope of this day is to help everyone understand the value of free and fair elections in a democracy. Law Day also encourages those participating in political discourse to remain civil.
Many institutions, including the Law Library of Congress (LLOC) are holding special events and panels free to watch online. The LLOC is holding a series of panels to discuss “rebuilding trust in our institutions, respect for one another, and our willingness to collaborate to address the challenges that face our nation.” Watch it here!
The aim of this year’s Law Day is to encourage everyone to vote. Do you want to celebrate Law Day? Are you registered to vote? You can check here and ensure your voice is heard and your spirit of Law Day continues.
Other Days that are observed in May:
Lei Day, May Day, International Workers’ Day, World Laughter Day, National Paranormal Day, International Harry Potter Day, Star Wars Day (May the Fourth), Mother’s Day, National Limerick Day, World Baking Day, National Talk Like Yoda Day, Memorial Day
For more information about Law Day check out:
Law Day, https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/educational-resources/annual-observances/law-day, Accessed 4/15/24
Law Day 2024, https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/law-day/, Accessed 4/15/24
A Conversation with the Law Librarian of Congress Aslihan Bulut and American Bar Association President Deborah Enix Ross, https://blogs.loc.gov/law/2023/04/a-conversation-with-the-law-librarian-of-congress-aslihan-bulut-and-american-bar-association-president-deborah-enix-ross/, Accessed 4/15/24
Can I Vote? https://www.nass.org/can-I-vote, Accessed 4/15/24