2026 ECBA Law Day Celebration

Celebrate Law Day: Voices of Change

ECBA MEMBERS INFORMATION & TICKETS (must be logged in to view): ECBA MEMBERS

Join us for an afternoon of reflection, recognition, and community as we celebrate Law Day. This year's program features a compelling keynote discussion on peacebuilding and leadership, followed by the presentation of our prestigious annual awards.

The Foundation

The American Dream is more than a personal ambition; it is a collective promise that every individual, regardless of their background, has the right to pursue a life of purpose and prosperity. However, this dream cannot take root in a landscape of instability or exclusion. It requires a foundation of equity, safety, and predictability. That foundation is the Rule of Law.

The Bridge

In an era where social and political divides often feel like impassable walls, the legal profession serves a higher calling: Building Bridges. As lawyers and judges, we are the architects of the "Common Ground." Our legal framework is the bridge that allows a diverse society to navigate inevitable conflicts without falling into the abyss of violence or injustice. By upholding due process and equal protection, we ensure that the path to the American Dream remains open to all, even—and especially—when the waters of disagreement run deep.

The Vision

This Law Day, the Erie County Bar Association is honored to welcome Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground for a moderatded discussion with Jeff Coleman, former PA Representative, host of Morning Light Live and Principal of Churchill Strategies. His global work in peacebuilding reminds us that while conflict is an inherent part of the human experience, violence is a choice we can avoid through the structural integrity of our laws and the strength of our empathy. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a legal system that doesn't just settle disputes, but bridges divides—ensuring that the American Dream remains a reachable reality for every member of our community.

Event Schedule

Main Event & Awards Presentation: 4:30 PM
Cocktail Reception: Immediately following the program (Location: Rehearsal Hall)

2026 Award Recipients

During the main event, we will pause to honor individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to justice and our community:

Chancellor of the Bar: Attorney Phil Friedman
Liberty Bell Award: Jennie Hagerty, Mercy Center for Women
Community Catalyst Award: Marcus Atkinson, MLK Center
Pro-Bono Award: Attorney Denise Pekelnicky

Registration & Tickets

Members & Guests

Cost: $65 per person
Includes: Admission to the main event, awards ceremony, and the cocktail reception in the Rehearsal Hall.
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General Public Tickets for the general public are being handled exclusively through the Warner Theater Box Office. Please contact the box office directly to secure your seat for the main presentation.

Note to Members: Your registration includes the cocktail reception following the awards. We look forward to seeing you in the Rehearsal Hall for drinks and hors d'oeuvres as we celebrate our honorees!