Happy MLK Day!

I never really thought before about the similarities between the fight for racial equality and the fight for justice for those accused of crimes. But the two battles are similar. As public defenders, we try to protect the rights of those who many people wish had no rights at all. Dr. King fought for equal rights for people whose rights were ignored because of their skin color. As public defenders, we do not fight in a battle field with armies, but in courtrooms across the land. Dr. King also did not use violence to make his point, but fought with demonstrations and marches such that he could not be ignored. Both battles involve standing up for what you believe in the face of overwhelming dissent. Both battles continue on as progress is measured in small, barely noticeable increments and both encounter numerous, seemingly insurmountable obstacles. I am proud to be part of this great battle the goal of which is to enable every person to have the protection of the rights guaranteed us in the Constitution of these United States.