The Connecticut Bar Association held its annual Law Day Ceremony at the Connecticut Appellate Court on May 7, highlighting the importance of the rule of law and civic engagement. The event, organized by the CBA Civics Education Committee, followed this year’s national theme from the American Bar Association: “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.”
Law Day is observed each year to encourage a deeper understanding of legal principles and promote active participation in democracy. The ceremony featured remarks from Connecticut Appellate Court Judge Bethany J. Alvord, who welcomed attendees, and CBA President Emily A. Gianquinto. Gianquinto said, “The rule of law means that everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, must be treated fairly under the same laws. The American Dream is the idea that anyone can build a good life in America through hard work, no matter who they are and no matter where they came from. So those two ideas are closely connected. Without the rule of law, the American dream is not possible for everyone.” Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas also addressed participants and stressed ongoing civic involvement beyond election day.
During the ceremony, Dina Monaco presented the Ralph J. Monaco Memorial Civics Education Awards to six high school students for their dedication to civics education and public service: Zander Bauer (Staples High School), Faustine Canales Arrieta (Norwich Free Academy), Elijah Falkenstein (Staples High School), Mariz Gollayan (Nathan Hale-Ray High School), Meredith Sullivan (Wilton High School), and Iryna Vasylkiv (Classical Magnet School). These awards honor past CBA President Ralph J. Monaco’s commitment to advancing civics education in Connecticut.
John R. Weikart, chair of the CBA Civics Education Committee, introduced a student program where Hartford Classical Magnet School students presented on concepts related to achieving the American dream before appellate judges.
This year’s event was dedicated to retired Superior Court Judge John D. Boland, remembered for his contributions to civics education and public service until his passing in October 2025.
The Connecticut Bar Association fosters community well-being through free legal advice and pro bono representation; it runs programs such as those at its Law Center; partners with organizations like the Connecticut Bar Institute; reaches more than 7,000 members statewide; promotes justice as a nonprofit member service entity; and is guided by its president alongside its Board of Governors and House of Delegates—all according to the official website.
