Celebrating Law Day

Courtesy Cannon Legal Office

Congress has declared Monday as “Law Day,” a day for all Americans to celebrate the practice of law and justice.

In 1958 President Dwight Eisenhower proclaimed Law Day to strengthen the heritage of liberty, justice and equality under the law. In 1961 a joint resolution of Congress designated the first day of May as the official date to provide opportunities to reflect on America’s legal heritage, the role of law and the rights and duties that are the foundation for peace and prosperity.

This year’s theme, “Separation of Powers” was at the forefront for America’s founders who wanted to ensure that powers granted to one branch of the government would be balanced by powers granted to other branches of the federal government.

Their ability to provide balance is evident in today’s system where the three branches, legislative, executive and judicial have equal checks and balances. In honor of Law Day this year, the base legal office is sponsoring an art contest with a theme of “Separation of Powers.” Prizes will be awarded to entries that best depict this principle and will be selected from four categories; kindergarten through fourth grade, grades five through eight, nine through 12 and special needs students.

Entries should be in original, poster-type display. Details and handouts can be found at the entryway to the base exchange and commissary, the youth center and the library. Entries also can be dropped off at these locations.

Deadline for submissions is May 12.

For more information, call 784-2211.