Today when the world is faced with two contrasting ideologies—the rule of law and the rule of terror, celebrating Law Day becomes more than observing our traditional values. It becomes an affirmation of the legal traditions that for years made the United States a beacon of hope for those living under tyranny.

Fifty years ago when President Dwight Eisenhower issued the proclamation establishing Law Day as a day to recognize the heritage of liberty, justice and equality under law as bequeathed to us by the founders of the United States, the world was similarly divided. At that time, it was the vigor of the free world opposed to the forces of the Soviet bloc.

Although much has changed in the world during 50 years since Law Day was established, including the fall of the Soviet Union and the end of apartheid in South Africa, the underlying contrast between transparency and totalitarianism remains.

To celebrate Law Day 2008, it is fitting that the theme—The Rule of Law: Foundation for Communities of Opportunity and Equity—defines what the rule of law can mean in the United States and abroad. By definition, the rule of law describes a system based on fair, publicized, easily understood and stable laws enforced with equity by knowledgeable lawyers and judges. This system of government encourages trust in institutions and the future.

The rule of law reminds us that law is not just the concern of lawyers and judges, but all people - whether teachers or truck drivers, drill sergeants or dentists, journalists or journeymen. It also reminds us that we have an obligation to maintain the rule of law here at home and around the world.

On this Law Day 2008, the __________ Bar Association asks each of us to stand up for the rule of law by supporting those who fight totalitarianism wherever it exists and those who advance understanding of the value of a system of laws, not men. We owe the future no less.

Link to Law Day 2008 Web site on the Rule of Law.

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© 2007 American Bar Association