Oaklen McKinney, a Vian Elementary School student, won first place for kindergarten coloring in the recent statewide Law Day Contest sponsored by the Oklahoma Bar Association.

McKinney was recognized by Oklahoma Supreme Court Chief Justice M. John Kane IV during a ceremony at the Oklahoma Capitol on April 4.

Nearly 1,700 students in pre-K through 12th grade entered this year’s Law Day Contest, themed “Voices of Democracy.”

“The theme for this year’s contest was selected to recognize that in democracies, the people rule, and we must speak up and participate to maintain democracy and the rule of law,” said OBA Law Day Chair Ed Wunch. “It’s inspiring to see so many students from across the state learning more about our democracy by participating in this annual contest.”

Law Day, a nationwide event designated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958, is celebrated annually with events on or around May 1 to raise awareness of American law. The idea for Law Day was conceived by the late Hicks Epton, a Wewoka attorney and OBA past president.

As part of the Law Day celebration, Oklahoma lawyers will be available to give free legal advice on Wednesday, May 1, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Those close to the Tulsa area may call 918-340-5297.

Questions may also be emailed to askalawyer@okbar. org.