2023 USSYP Yearbook - Flipbook - Page 28
The Department
of Justice
E
steemed USSYP alumnus Robert
Henry, former chief judge of
the U.S. Tenth Circuit Court of
Appeals, told the students to “follow
the law that has made this country
great and the envy of the world.” An
insider’s view of the law from the
Executive branch was held the next
day, when the group was hosted for
a multifaceted educational event at
the Robert F. Kennedy Department of
Justice Building. Seated in the Great Hall,
the students first heard from Librarian Robin
Foltz, who described the history of the building and
the magnificent Greco Deco artwork and design. She revealed nuances of the massive
frescoes and portraits from the New Deal era depicting great codifiers of the law and
allegories of the majesty of justice and perils of lawlessness. Assistant Attorney General
for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke spoke next, beginning by stating the department’s mission:
to uphold the rule of law, keep the country safe and protect civil rights. A lifelong civil rights
lawyer who has spent her entire career in public service, Ms. Clarke relayed several of her
ongoing priorities including combating hate crime and hate speech and ensuring voting
rights so that “every American can cast a ballot free from discrimination and harassment.”
She draws strength in her work from great figures in America’s Civil Rights Movement
such as the late Congressman John Lewis and former UN Secretary General Ban KiMoon, whose words she quoted as inspiration: “Throughout human history, in every great
endeavor, we have learned that it is only through seriousness of purpose and persistence
that you win the day.” A panel discussion with several of the Department’s leading lawyers
from the Housing and Civil Enforcement, Special Litigation, Criminal, Human Trafficking
and Prosecution, and Educational Opportunities sections ensued, with members taking
in-depth questions. Following the visit, Ella Duus of Alabama said, “This eye-opening
experience has sparked a newfound interest in civil rights work, and I am now eager to
explore this field during my time in college.”
26 | UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM 2023
