Painting a picture of justice: Law Day 2025 art contest invites student creativity

December 13, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives Edwina Richardson encourages young artists to reflect on the principles of unity and shared responsibility through the Law Day 2025 art contest. Photo courtesy of St. John’s University

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The New York court system is calling on young artists to capture the spirit of unity through their craft. In honor of Law Day 2025, the Office for Justice Initiatives, in collaboration with the Historical Society of the New York Courts, has launched an art contest for high school students statewide.

This year’s theme, “The Constitution’s Promise: Out of Many, One,” draws from the American Bar Association’s focus on unity and shared responsibility under the rule of law.

“The Office for Justice Initiatives and the New York State Unified Court System are deeply committed to promoting civic engagement and community outreach, especially among our young people,” said Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives Edwina Richardson. “We strongly encourage budding artists of high school age statewide to participate this year and look forward to the submissions to come.”

The Historical Society of the New York Courts, a co-sponsor of the initiative, explained its dedication to involving young people in exploring the role of the law and courts in society. The contest encourages students to reflect on the principles of the U.S. and New York Constitutions and to express those ideas creatively through their artwork.

Submissions are due by Feb. 25, 2025, and must visually interpret this year’s theme. The competition features two judging rounds: local judicial districts will first select winners, who will then compete at the state level for cash prizes and online recognition. Winners will be announced on May 1, 2025, marking Law Day.