News Post

Montgomery, Alabama, February 12, 2013 – The 2013 Law Day theme is, “Realizing the Dream: Equality for All,” which celebrates the 50th anniversary of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation.

The Alabama State Bar is calling for entries from students in grades K-12 across the state for a creative competition based on this year’s theme. Students may submit entries using social media, posters or essays.

State Bar President Phillip W. McCallum of Birmingham (McCallum Methvin & Terrell PC) said, “Rev. King’s inspirational words continue to challenge us to live up to the ideal of equality under the law. Alabama lawyers are united and committed to upholding the rule of law to ensure that our citizens have the opportunity to realize the dream.” He noted local bar associations across the state will also sponsor Law Day activities during May.

For information and entry forms, call 800-354-6154, extension 2126. The deadline is March 29, 2013. Tuscaloosa attorney David Rains (Rosen Harwood PA) is chair of the Law Day Committee.

The poster and essay entries will be presented in two (2) classifications – grades K-3 and 4-6 for posters; grades 7-9 and 10-12 for essays and the social media category. A total of $2,400 in cash prizes will be awarded to winners. Teachers also receive a monetary gift for use in the classroom.

In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower established May 1st as Law Day to strengthen our heritage of liberty, justice and equality under law. This is a national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law and to underscore how law and the legal process contribute to the freedoms we share.

The 17,300-member Alabama State Bar is dedicated to promoting the professional responsibility, competence and satisfaction of its members; improving the administration of justice; and increasing public understanding and respect for the law.