As our more than 28,000 diverse members witness the protests and public outcry unfolding in Illinois and across the country provoked by the horrific events in Minneapolis, we are compelled to speak about the rule of law, the fundamental right to peacefully assemble and protest, and equal protection—for all.

The Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) has long championed the rule of law and the fair and impartial administration of justice. Like our elected officials, lawyers swear an oath to uphold the U.S. and Illinois constitutions. As lawyers, ISBA members also take an oath to abide by the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct and assume “special responsibility for the quality of justice.” But justice is an ideal that we must strenuously work to achieve. When we fall short, it is our citizens’ right to voice those failings—by peaceful protest if necessary—and seek positive change. Our American tradition of public assembly and free speech, enshrined in the First Amendment, serves as a foundation for the strength and resilience of American democracy.

We also recognize that destructive violence is an affront to the rule of law and an offense to the ideal justice we strive to achieve. The ISBA condemns those who fan the flames of violence and manipulate the current unrest for their own ends.

In the aftermath of these difficult times, we call on all ISBA members and every Illinois lawyer to stand ready and help mend the torn fabric of our communities. As lawyers, we stand for the rule of law and with those seeking equal protection under the law. Most importantly, today, we stand with people of color as we all work together toward a more perfect Union. 

David B. Sosin, ISBA President
Dennis J. Orsey, ISBA President-Elect