Backlash
Among those affected is the Smithsonian Institution, which came under fire earlier this year despite its longstanding mission to preserve cultural heritage and promote educational access. You can learn more about its work or show your support here.
The American Bar Association has also been targeted, with recent executive orders aiming to curtail its DEI initiatives. For additional context, read Joseph Brophy’s article, Feds Order a Hit on the ABA, in the Maricopa Lawyer publication (April 2025), and explore ways to participate in Law Day here.
Meanwhile, several private companies have faced backlash for maintaining DEI programs. If you’d like to support businesses standing firm on their commitments, the Arizona Republic recently highlighted 18 companies continuing their DEI efforts. More here.
Awareness Days
I celebrated Black History Month (February) and Womens’ History Month (March), by joining Arizona’s Black Bar Association (ABB), and renewing my membership with the Arizona Women Lawyers Association (AWLA).
The Texas Bar celebrated Women’s History month via the Texas Bar Podcast, “The 100th Anniversary of the All Women’s Texas Supreme Court of 1925.” It was a great listen! Listen to the podcast here.
Springtime also brings us celebrations for Earth Day (US) and International Mother Earth Day on April 22. The Day recognizes the Earth and its ecosystems as humanity’s common home and the value of protecting it.
On April 16, I celebrated World Voice Day (WVD) at band practice with Under Suspicion! WVD is a global annual event dedicated to voice celebration. The aim is to show the enormous value of the voice in people’s daily lives. Voice is an important aspect of healthy and effective communication. The WVD brings worldwide awareness of the necessity of preventing voice issues, training the artistic voice, and researching the application and function of the voice.
Spring Reflections: Civility & the Rule of Law
Spring brings an opportunity to reflect on two important occasions in the legal community:
Texas Day of Civility in the Law – April 10
Law Day – May 1
The Texas Day of Civility in the Law was established through a shared commitment by the Supreme Court of Texas, the Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas, and the State Bar of Texas. First proclaimed on April 20, 2018, the day highlights the importance of professionalism, reminding attorneys of their responsibility to practice with civility and respect.
Law Day is observed nationally on May 1 and organized by the American Bar Association. It’s a time to reflect on our shared commitment to constitutional principles and democratic values, and to renew our dedication to justice, equality, and the rule of law.
As we move into the second quarter of the year, let’s all strive to be inclusive, respectful, and—above all—good humans.