Gerald Ford said “Our constitution works. Our great republic is a government of laws, not of men.” Andrew Jackson said “The great can protect themselves, but the poor and humble require the arm and shield of the law. “ Republican or Democrat, all acknowledge that the USA is a nation of laws. In these times of political unrest it is important to remember this country is founded on the rule of law.
During the cold war the USSR celebrated May 1 with parades emphasizing military might, and power. In response President Eisenhower declared that May 1 would be celebrated in America as Law Day. In 1961 Congress made it official and in 36 USC § 113 provided that US Citizens would honor the law on May 1:
(1) in appreciation of their liberties and the reaffirmation of their loyalty to the United States and of their rededication to the ideals of equality and justice under law in their relations with each other and with other countries; and
(2) for the cultivation of the respect for law that is so vital to the democratic way of life.
We don’t celebrate with parades, fireworks, concerts on the National Mall, or other such holiday trappings. Nobody gets the day off work or school, and the Courts and banks are open. Instead various State Bar Associations arrange for local lawyers and judges to visit local grammar and secondary schools, to inform and teach future generations what the American judicial system is all about. On this May 1, Mills and Associates reminds you to celebrate and embrace the law.