For nearly 50 years, the U.S. has celebrated Law Day every May—a tradition first established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958 and officially designated by Congress in 1961. While Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) does not formally observe Law Day on May 1, the court hosts its own annual celebration later in the month, offering students and families a hands-on opportunity to experience their local justice system. This year’s Law Day event took place on Friday, May 22, welcoming high school students, youth programs; and, for the second year, friends and family of SMC staff.
Each year, the American Bar Association (ABA) sets a national theme to promote civic engagement and reflection. Law Day 2026 continues to explore how constitutional principles unite us and support a strong democracy. Across the country, legal organizations, schools, and courts recognize the day through community activities. At SMC, Law Day means interactive learning, meaningful conversations, and a welcoming environment where students can see the legal system at work.
The event is made possible through a monthslong effort led by SMC’s Equity and Engagement team. Director of Equity and Engagement Victoria Moreland and Program Specialist Linh Le begin preparations as early as December, when the court confirms participation and identifies judicial partners. This year, Presiding Judge Anita Crawford-Willis and Judge Willie Gregory worked closely with the team. In January, invitations went out to all Seattle high schools as planning began in earnest.
Le explains that preparations center around three major components: coordinating with schools, preparing materials, and engaging SMC staff volunteers. “We rely on staff to make Law Day successful,” she said. “They bring their families, host tours, run game shows, represent their careers, and participate in mock trials. Their enthusiasm elevates the entire experience.” Staff also prepare badges, snacks, zines, flyers, itineraries, guides, and activity materials—dozens of details that set the stage for a smooth and engaging day.
One of the most exciting additions this year is the involvement of youth programs beyond high schools. For the first time, students from GEAR UP—a college access program supporting youth exploration of future careers—will attend. GEAR UP facilitator Glendal Tautua, known to his students affectionately as “Mr. G,” shared that many of his students have expressed interest in law. “Students are excited to meet real professionals and hopefully make connections with individuals they can see themselves reflected in,” he said. GEAR UP learned about Law Day through a parent who works at SMC and saw how closely the event aligns with the program’s college and career readiness goals. About 20 GEAR UP students plan to participate.
A Girl Scout troop will also join the event after Probation Counselor Cesario G. Bosquez Jr. coordinated participation for his daughter and her fellow scouts. The troop, which also volunteers in the Community Resource Center, will experience Law Day’s activities firsthand. Their attendance marks another meaningful expansion of how SMC connects local youth with civic learning.
Nathan Hale High School, a returning participant, views Law Day as an essential career-connected learning opportunity. Career Connect teacher Zarita Hester shared that she wants her students to understand the range of careers within law, public safety, corrections, and security. “Engaging and teaching in this way helps students understand the roles of each person in the field and how they work together,” she said. Last year, students especially loved the mock trial, the lunchtime roundtables, and the photo station. This year, Hester is bringing 28–30 students to take part.
Staff belonging is another core focus this year. Numerous SMC staff members and their family and friends will join the celebration. Among them is Court Operations Specialist Marlen Torres, attending for the first time with her seventh-grade daughter, Crystal, who is also part of GEAR UP. Inspired by last year’s event, Torres wanted her family involved. “It’s fascinating for students to see how the legal process works and it can spark interest in future careers,” she said.
As always, Law Day will feature a full slate of activities: guided tours of the court and City Hall, career conversations with marshals and legal professionals, mock trials held in five courtrooms, a game show hosted by judges and staff, a scavenger hunt, and the popular selfie wall stocked with judicial robes and a larger-than-life gavel.
“What’s so amazing about today is that we connect students with real people working across the legal system,” Moreland said. “Hands on learning empowers youth with knowledge about court careers, the judicial process, and their role in our democracy.”
Law Day remains one of SMC’s most energizing traditions—a day of learning, connection, and community that invites young people to envision themselves as future civic leaders.