The United States of America has always been more than a location or place on a map. It has been a set of ideals founded upon a belief in and adherence to the rule of law. In order for that foundation to remain strong and vibrant, it is important that there is public confidence in the institutions of government—Congress, the executive branch and above all, the judiciary—as well as what is commonly referred to as the fourth estate, the press.

Our nation today faces challenges, obstacles and threats that a short time ago would have seemed unthinkable. We lawyers are the guardians of our democracy and we have an obligation and duty to stand on the front lines in a battle to defend and protect the precious civil liberties that are enunciated in our Constitution and Bill of Rights. From the earliest days of our republic, our democracy and system of government have been built upon these fundamental principles.