The 23rd District Court will host its fourth annual Law Day on May 1, focusing on the theme “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” The event aims to help students from the Taylor School District learn about the Constitution and their rights as citizens.
Law Day is designed to highlight how the rule of law supports freedom and allows people to pursue their goals. This year’s activities will include participation from local agencies such as the Taylor Police Department, Taylor Fire Department, Michigan State Police, Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, Drug Enforcement Agency, Detroit Metro SWAT Airport Police, Neighborhood Defenders Office, Wayne County Prosecutors Office, Taylor Federation of Teachers, Corewell Health and others.
Chief Judge Victoria Shackelford said, “As Americans it is crucial we understand the importance of the rule of law, our Constitution, and the rights the Constitution provides. The rule of law means that everyone, regardless of who they are, must be treated fairly under the law. The rule of law and the rights granted to us in the Constitution allow us to pursue our dreams and goals.”
Shackelford also said she hopes learning about these topics will help foster good citizenship among students: “I am hopeful learning the importance of our Constitution will foster good citizenship in Taylor students that will guide them throughout life.” She added that this year’s celebration would include activities reinforcing these themes: “We are all very excited at the court about this year’s Law Day celebration. The theme of the rule of law, the Constitution, and the American Dream will run throughout the students’ day at courthouse. The students will also engage in activities that enforce these themes.”
Taylor School District Superintendent Michael Wegher commented on why this topic matters for young people: “The theme of this year’s Law Day is essential to what makes our country great. It is important for everyone to understand the rule of law, and that everyone is equal under law. From founding our nation through many crises we have faced; rule of law is a right many have fought not just to maintain but expand to all.” He continued: “I am excited to again see that through our continued partnership with Judge Shackelford and 23rd District Court we can instill in our students importance of rule-of-law and how it is essential to all American citizens.”
The event welcomes all third graders from local schools. Judge Shackelford expressed her hope for continuing Law Day into future years so courts can encourage young people toward active citizenship.
