Minnesota lawyers reaffirm rule of law on ‘Law Day of Action’

Attorneys and members of the public filled the fountain plaza at the Hennepin County Government Center at noon Thursday to mark “National Law Day of Action.”

The event was promoted as a way for attorneys to reaffirm their commitment to the rule of law and judicial independence. Bar associations across the country held similar events.

Since 1958, Law Day has been observed annually on May 1. Established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and later officially designated by Congress as a national day of recognition, the day celebrates the rule of law.

Thursday’s nonpartisan gathering was intended to educate the public, inspire legal professionals to uphold the fairness and integrity of the justice system, and promote civic awareness.

Samuel Edmunds, Minnesota State Bar Association president, and m boulette, Hennepin County Bar Association president, spoke, and retired Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Margaret Chutich presided as lawyers in attendance retook the Attorney’s Oath, which all lawyers pledge upon admission to the bar.

The event this year had special significance, according to Edmunds.

“The rule of law is under attack,” Edmunds stated in a news release before the event. “On May 1, Minnesota attorneys are standing together to send a clear and unified message: We support our courts, our Constitution, and the principles that keep our democracy strong. Retaking the Minnesota Attorney’s Oath together is more than just symbolic — this is a recommitment to the values that define our profession.”

In a joint news release, the state, Hennepin County and Ramsey County bar associations added, “This symbolic act highlights the legal profession’s enduring duty to uphold the Constitution, safeguard individual rights, and ensure access to impartial justice for all.

“The principles of judicial independence and the independence of the legal profession —cornerstones of American democracy — are facing unprecedented challenges across the country. Attacks on judges for unpopular rulings, political pressure on legal professionals and law firms, and a growing distrust of the legal system threaten the very foundation of fairness and equal justice,” the organizations further commented.