“Safeguarding the rights of others is the most noble
and beautiful end of a human being.”

- Kahlil Gibran

Our members have voluntarily chosen to stand between our government and those whom our government seeks to deprive of life and liberty. The very thought of such an undertaking should earn the respect of those who revere justice. Indeed it seems that those who profess to govern justly would do everything in their power to come to the aid of those who defend others. Sadly, the nobility of defense work is lost on those who place a greater value on political expedience than equal protection under the law. In such a political climate, the importance of GACDL is abundantly clear. The purposes for which GACDL was founded remain relevant.

As I take the reins of GACDL, I am at once humbled and grateful, elated and somber. Gideon’s trumpet has sounded, GACDL responded and I will give my best effort. I am comforted by the fact that we have a dedicated membership. Our boards and past presidents have served tirelessly, laying the foundation for the continued success of our efforts. I am handed the reins of an evolving, enthusiastic and emboldened GACDL. I humbly take these reins and declare we will not retreat; not one inch, not for one minute! I call on you to join me in this effort, Herculean as it is, to continue the battle against those who would silence Gideon’s trumpet and their desire to return to a time when justice was a privilege and not a right.

As we move through 2010, in every case let’s remember our purpose. When we are battle worn and the odds are against us, let’s rededicate ourselves and remember we fight the good fight. Let’s support each other and encourage each other. Let’s take pride in the fact that we do not seek to do what is popular, we seek to do what is just. Let’s remember for whom we fight and against whom we fight. We fight for our clients who often have us as their only shield from the Goliath resources of the government. The evidence of who we are and what we believe is found in our work. Like our nation’s founders, we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights. These are the rights we swore an oath to protect. Let’s be proud of the work we’ve chosen, as it is the most noble and beautiful end of a human being.

Humbly,

Cynthia W. Roseberry, President