“It is the responsibility of every American to impart to the next generation the values upon which our nation was founded if our democracy is to flourish,” Chief Judge Wilson said. His focus since his appointment has been to increase the court system’s public outreach and educational programs, including a new summer internship for recent high school graduates.

NYSBA President Lewis highlighted a critical gap in the general public’s understanding of the democratic process during his remarks at the celebration. He expressed concern over the growing inability to compromise and listen to differing viewpoints, which he believes significantly hinders societal progress, both economically and technologically. Lewis emphasized the importance of ensuring that elections are meaningful and reflect the will of the people.

“We must ensure that elections matter,” Lewis said. “People, especially young people, need to know that their voices are being heard and that they have ears to hear other people’s voices as well.” 

The celebration also included the presentation of the Judith S. Kaye Service Awards, named after New York’s first female and longest-serving Chief Judge. The awards, presented by First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George on behalf of Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas, recognized nine non-judicial employees for their exemplary service in various capacities, including work performance, community service, and heroism.

Brooklyn’s Court Officer Andrew LaBosco was honored for his extensive community service efforts, along with Capt. Jessica Herrera, Brooklyn Lt. Erica Prosper and Capt. Vincent Sinclair, at the Law Day celebrations. Other honorees included Queens County Family Court’s Mark Chou and the Appellate Division’s Chandra Nash, recognized for their work performance that improved court operations. In the heroism category, Lt. Brendan Mullaney was acknowledged for his courageous act of helping a family during a house fire, with Court Assistant Josephine Rimmer and Deputy Chief Clerk April Schmick also recognized for managing a potentially dangerous situation at their courthouse.

The event concluded with the announcement of the Law Day 2024 Art Contest winners. High school students across the state had submitted artwork reflecting the theme “Voices of Democracy.” Mitchell Homick of Auburn High School won first place for his work “Liberty Sings,” followed by Shangjing Chen and Milo Brustein. The winning artworks, which symbolize the enduring spirit of democracy, will be featured on the court system’s website and receive cash prizes from the Historical Society of the New York Courts.

“This year we received more submissions than ever, 91 from across New York State,” said Chief Judge Wilson. “All 91 participants received a pocket-sized U.S. Constitution,” Wilson said that next year, he wants to give out pocket-sized editions of the New York State Constitution.

Law Day is a national day dedicated to celebrating the rule of law and its role in the foundation of the United States. Established in 1958 by President Dwight Eisenhower, Law Day was created to provide the public with a better understanding of the legal system and celebrate the liberties that the rule of law safeguards. 

In 1961, Congress officially designated May 1 as the annual celebration date for Law Day, as a time to reflect on the role that law plays in the foundation of the country and the daily lives of its citizens. 

The observance of Law Day is primarily meant to educate people about their legal rights and the legal process, thereby reinforcing the principles of justice and the rule of law in a democratic society. Law Day activities often include educational sessions conducted by courts, bar associations, schools, and civic groups aimed at enhancing public understanding and appreciation of the law.