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College and University Students

Law Day falls near the end of the academic year at many colleges and universities, providing an opportunity for students to be engaged throughout the spring semester in planning a program or event for the campus community. Colleges and universities have many channels to connect to students interested in the Law Day theme.

  • Student government office
  • College or university library
  • Political science department
  • Student newspaper, radio or television
  • Student political action groups
  • Student Affairs or Student Life office can connect you to student clubs and organizations
  • Campus Compact – State affiliates
  • Democracy Commitment or American Democracy Project

Every Law Day theme lends itself to creative opportunities for discussion and civic engagement. Students at community colleges and four year or research institutions can work with faculty, community groups, and the legal community to develop virtual, web-based, and in-person programs and events that engage diverse audiences. To the extent that every campus has organizations and resources relevant to the Law Day theme, consider showcasing everything a campus has to offer to allow everyone to learn and voice their opinions.

Book or Film Discussion

Books and films can provide an entree into virtual or socially-distanced discussions related to the Law Day theme. Visit LawDay.org for relevant book and film recommendations.

VIRTUAL Poetry Slam

Poetry can serve as a creative outlet for discussion of complicated issues, and engage groups of people who might otherwise avoid certain conversations.

Film Contest

Encourage students to put their movie-making skills to work. Students might develop Law Day related public service announcements that air on the campus television station or film original documentaries. Consider allowing the campus community to vote on the winners through a website or social media.

Essay Contest

Develop a provocative question related to the Law Day theme and allow students to submit responses. Highlight essays by sharing them on a special website or print winning essays in a regular alumni publication. Visit LawDay.org for example essay prompts.

Campus Conference or Poster Sessions

Allow students to showcase their research or problem-solving ideas on issues relative to the Law Day theme. Host presentations during a virtual conference or on a website, or host a series of short TED-like talks.

Art Exhibit

Curate an art or photography exhibit related to the Law Day theme. Display the exhibit in a campus museum or other public area and invite the public to view it, or create a virtual exhibit that could be viewed online.

Theater or Other Arts Programming

Plays, dramatic readings, dances, flash mobs or other coordinated programs can highlight issues or provide a starting point for provocative discussion. They could be conducted virtually or in-person.

Sidewalk Chalking Event (if it’s permitted on campus)

Perhaps you want to spread a message about the rule of law. Do not overlook the straightforward and effective, and socially-distanced, method of sidewalk chalk.

SOCIAL MEDIA OR VIDEO TALKBACK

Encourage everyone in the campus community to express their thoughts on an issue related to the Law Day theme by recording a short video or conversation about the issue. Videos are quickly made and posted via various social media outlets, or may be submitted to a central hub on campus for posting.