The Oklahoma Bar Journal August 2023

L aw D ay 2023

Law Day Debrief: Continuing the Tradition of Celebrating our Children and Giving Back to Our Communities By Ed Wunch

L AW DAY HAS A LONG tradition in Oklahoma. When reviewing some old newspapers last year, I found an article by Milt Phillips in the Seminole Producer from April 18, 1948. Hicks Epton and the members of the Seminole County Bar Association presented to the public to educate them about our profession. According to the article, back then, the OBA had about 4,000 active members and at least one staff person. We are quite fortunate to have incredible bar staff now in 2023, but they each probably have just as much on their plates as that one full-time paid secretary from 1948. Hicks Epton went on to serve as OBA president in 1953 and helped found what we now celebrate as Law Day. After a few years of virtual or local ceremonies because of the pandemic, this year we

this year’s theme, “Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility, and Collaboration.” I especially enjoyed Chief Justice Kane’s remarks where he recounted being sworn in and asking a question about Oklahoma legal history. He spoke to an expert on the subject, who just happened to be the then-current chief justice. It was important for these students to understand that regardless of their path, we all have a role to play in preserving our democracy through participation. We also have the benefit of living in this great state where our leaders are available and approachable. County bar associations held numerous events across the state. I was fortunate to attend the Seminole County Bar Association Law Day Luncheon with President Hermanson and numerous judges

were again able to celebrate our statewide contest winners in the Supreme Court Ceremonial Courtroom at the state Capitol. OBA President Brian Hermanson, Chief Justice John Kane and I each had the opportunity to speak to the students and families in attendance about Law Day and

HISTORY OF LAW DAY In 1951, the late Hicks Epton launched one of the most important public relations programs ever undertaken by the OBA: Know Your Liberties – Know Your Courts Week. This was one of the last weeks of April dedicated to educating the public about the legal system and celebrating the liberties we have as Americans. Learn more about the history of Law Day at https://bit.ly/OKLawDayHistory.

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THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL