REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of May 1, 2025 as Law Day in the City of Santa Clara Including Recognition of the Katharine & George Alexander Community Law Center at Santa Clara University for Their Contribution of Pro Bono Legal Services to the Community.
Report
BACKGROUND
Law Day, held annually on May 1st, is a national day to honor the rule of law and reflect on the way law and the legal process contribute to the freedoms that all Americans share.
The idea for Law Day began in 1957, when American Bar Association president Charles S. Rhyne envisioned a day to celebrate the United States legal system. The following year, President Dwight D. Eisenhower established Law Day to honor the principles of government under law. The president of the United States has issued a proclamation for Law Day annually since 1958. In 1961, Congress designated May 1st as Law Day.
The 2025 Law Day theme, “The Constitution’s Promise: Out of Many, One” recognizes the Constitution as a framework for government that unites the American people as one citizenry. This year’s theme encourages individuals to explore and renew their duties to one another under the Constitution and the country’s democratic norms.
DISCUSSION
On April 29, 2025, it is proposed that the City Council proclaim May 1, 2025 as Law Day in the City of Santa Clara. As part of this, the Katharine & George Alexander Community Law Center at Santa Clara University will be recognized for the pro bono legal services it provides to the community in the areas of immigration, consumer protection and worker’s rights laws.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This item does not constitute a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), therefore no environmental review is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Glen R. Googins, City Attorney
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of May 1, 2025 as Law Day in the City of Santa Clara