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April 26, 2024

ABA Day 2024 Wrap Up

As we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated in ABA Day 2024, we look to continue our advocacy efforts throughout the year.

As we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated in ABA Day 2024, we look to continue our advocacy efforts throughout the year.

As we turn the page on another impactful ABA Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who contributed to making this year's event a resounding success. ABA Day 2024 brought together advocates from across the nation, both in person and online, to amplify our collective voice on critical issues affecting the administration of justice – a testament to the unwavering commitment of the legal community.

Under the leadership of our ABA Day 2024 Planning Committee, led by Chair Barbara Howard, and the dedicated efforts of our Governmental Affairs Office, this year's event marked a new chapter in the coordination of online and in-person participation.

View ABA Day Advocacy Campaigns.

While almost 200 advocates made their presence felt in Washington, D.C., hundreds more added their voices virtually by engaging with their elected officials in home district offices or online. Through a combination of in-person meetings, digital advocacy campaigns, a broadcast featuring champions and members of Congress, and more, we harnessed the power of technology to bridge distances and elevate our collective advocacy efforts.

During the digital broadcast, participants had the opportunity to hear from esteemed members of Congress, including Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Rep. Kelly Armstrong, Sen. Peter Welch, Sen. Ron Wyden, and others. Their insights, coupled with compelling addresses from speakers like LSC President Ron Flagg, underscored the urgency of our advocacy work and galvanized participants to take action.

Watch the ABA Day 2024 Broadcast

This year's event also saw the presentation of the ABA Grassroots Advocacy Award to the National Legal Aid Defender Association and the National Association of IOLTA Programs. Each organization was recognized for its exemplary efforts in safeguarding vital programs that benefit our communities.

While our primary focus centered on advocating for increased funding for the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) and federal public defender programs, our advocacy efforts also included a special program on student debt  led by the Young Lawyers Division. Through personalized messages, constituent stories, and grassroots engagement, advocates made their voices heard on a range of pressing issues, from access to justice to student debt relief.

In-person attendees also had the opportunity to relax and socialize at a lovely reception at the Law Library of Congress and listen to the inspiring remarks of Justice Award winner Rep. Kelly Armstrong. 

As we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated in ABA Day 2024, we look to continue our advocacy efforts throughout the year – reaffirming our shared commitment to advancing the values and principles that define our profession.

To participate in future advocacy campaigns, please sign up for the ABA Grassroots Action Team to be the first to know when your perspective is needed.  Thank you all again, and we look forward to seeing you next year on April 9-10 for ABA Day 2025.

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