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Connecticut Bar Association

For over a century and a half, Juneteenth has represented an opportunity for us to come together as a nation to reflect on the past and plan for our future. Juneteenth was not the date slaves in rebellious states were emancipated; that occurred on January 1, 1863. Nor is Juneteenth associated with the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which was ratified on December 6, 1865. Juneteenth is important because it was the day that Union soldiers reached Texas, and were able to inform the last enclave of slaves in rebellious states of their emancipation, which had occurred two and a half years prior.

Juneteenth is a stark reminder that the rule of law requires that legislative reform be accompanied by vigilance, education, and enforcement to ensure its full implementation and utilization. In this way, Juneteenth presents an opportunity for us to gather as a nation to educate each other and discuss how we can ensure we all remain free from the bondage caused by ignorance, injustice, and inequality. Juneteenth is a reminder that we must preserve and continue the journey to inform every sector of our society about the enduring strength and power of unity, liberty, and justice. These are the tenets our nation holds dear and upon which our democracy was founded.

In the wake of the current international social protests demanding an end to systemic racism and discrimination, we are all given the opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth by reconnecting with our communities and making plans to change our future, protect the rule of law, and honor those who gave their lives to fight for freedom and justice. In recognition of our challenges, and in tribute to Juneteenth, the CBA has commenced conversations with our Connecticut community on how we can address racism and discrimination in all facets of our society. In just the last month, we have advanced the conversation in the following ways:

 

  • Convened a to begin a conversation with a diverse group of community leaders, law enforcement officials, and attorneys
  • Formed a working group to research possible changes to Rule 8.4 (7) of the Connecticut Rules of Professional Conduct to address discrimination related to the practice of law by attorneys
  • Organized a free movie screening on Wednesday, July 1 of , followed by a community town hall, to discuss systemic racism and discrimination in our society

When we make a concerted effort to bring Juneteenth to life, it informs each of our successive generations of not only where we were and where we need to go, but also our pledge to persist until everyone in our society is emancipated from the remnants of slavery that undermine our civilization.

As I conclude my year as president of the CBA, I am reminded of a quote from Abraham Lincoln: “I leave you, hoping that the lamp of liberty will burn in your bosoms until there shall no longer be a doubt that all men [and women] are created free and equal.”

 

Warmly,

Ndidi N. Moses

President of the Connecticut Bar Association, 2019-2020

Connecticut Bar Association

30 Bank St | New Britain, CT 06051 | (844)469-2221 | info@ctbar.org

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