Speak Up for Justice Awarded Judicial Independence Prize by International Association of Judges
On July 8, 2026, Speak Up for Justice (SU4J) proudly accepted the Judicial Independence Award presented by the International Association of Judges (IAJ). This esteemed accolade acknowledges SU4J's commitment to defending judicial independence in the face of mounting political pressure. Founded by Paul Kiesel, a Los Angeles trial lawyer, the organization represents a nonpartisan initiative aimed at championing the rule of law and voicing support for endangered judges globally.
This year, SU4J shares the honor with the European Court of Human Rights and Dr. Fernando Cruz Castro, former President of the Supreme Court of Justice in Costa Rica. IAJ President Walter Barone highlighted SU4J's relentless efforts in safeguarding judicial independence from various forms of political encroachment, shining a light on the perils confronting judges and reinforcing the importance of public support for democracy.
"This recognition is truly a tribute to those judges who have bravely spoken out about the intimidation and threats facing our judiciary today," commented Kiesel. He elaborated on the alarming rise in attacks against judges, emphasizing how such hostile acts threaten public trust in the system of justice.
For over a year, SU4J has actively facilitated dialogue by hosting virtual forums addressing the ongoing dangers to judiciary independence. The first forum took place on April 15, 2025, and was followed by monthly sessions featuring notable participants, including retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, former California Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, and international judges who have experienced similar threats in their respective countries.
These gatherings have aided in elevating judicial voices and provided a platform for judges who have faced direct consequences for their rulings. From 2024 to 2025, reported threats against federal judges, as documented by the U.S. Marshals Service, increased significantly, underscoring the gravity of this issue.
Marking the culmination of its efforts, the award ceremony will be held on October 18 during the IAJ's annual meeting in Lisbon, Portugal. Leo M. Gordon, Senior Judge of the U.S. Court of International Trade and SU4J Executive Committee member, will graciously accept the honor on behalf of the organization.
Founded by Kiesel, SU4J is an assemblage of judges, legal professionals, and advocates committed to upholding judicial independence, promoting accountability, and shielding the courts from political manipulation. The executive committee reflects a diverse body of esteemed members such as Judge Beth Bloom, Judge Leo Gordon, and others dedicated to these ideals.
Moving forward, SU4J intends to continue its advocacy efforts, prioritizing platforms that allow judges to share their experiences and challenges. As it gathers support from legal professionals and the public alike, the movement seeks to foster a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, transparency, and the continued integrity of the judicial system. For further information on their initiatives, visit SpeakUpForJustice.law and download resources available through their YouTube channel.
The Judicial Independence Award stands not only as recognition for SU4J's dedication but as a rallying call for legal systems worldwide to safeguard the vital role of the judiciary in maintaining democracy and the rule of law.
This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against oppression and the necessity for strength, solidarity, and resilience within our judicial framework.
This year, SU4J shares the honor with the European Court of Human Rights and Dr. Fernando Cruz Castro, former President of the Supreme Court of Justice in Costa Rica. IAJ President Walter Barone highlighted SU4J's relentless efforts in safeguarding judicial independence from various forms of political encroachment, shining a light on the perils confronting judges and reinforcing the importance of public support for democracy.
"This recognition is truly a tribute to those judges who have bravely spoken out about the intimidation and threats facing our judiciary today," commented Kiesel. He elaborated on the alarming rise in attacks against judges, emphasizing how such hostile acts threaten public trust in the system of justice.
For over a year, SU4J has actively facilitated dialogue by hosting virtual forums addressing the ongoing dangers to judiciary independence. The first forum took place on April 15, 2025, and was followed by monthly sessions featuring notable participants, including retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, former California Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, and international judges who have experienced similar threats in their respective countries.
These gatherings have aided in elevating judicial voices and provided a platform for judges who have faced direct consequences for their rulings. From 2024 to 2025, reported threats against federal judges, as documented by the U.S. Marshals Service, increased significantly, underscoring the gravity of this issue.
Marking the culmination of its efforts, the award ceremony will be held on October 18 during the IAJ's annual meeting in Lisbon, Portugal. Leo M. Gordon, Senior Judge of the U.S. Court of International Trade and SU4J Executive Committee member, will graciously accept the honor on behalf of the organization.
Founded by Kiesel, SU4J is an assemblage of judges, legal professionals, and advocates committed to upholding judicial independence, promoting accountability, and shielding the courts from political manipulation. The executive committee reflects a diverse body of esteemed members such as Judge Beth Bloom, Judge Leo Gordon, and others dedicated to these ideals.
Moving forward, SU4J intends to continue its advocacy efforts, prioritizing platforms that allow judges to share their experiences and challenges. As it gathers support from legal professionals and the public alike, the movement seeks to foster a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, transparency, and the continued integrity of the judicial system. For further information on their initiatives, visit SpeakUpForJustice.law and download resources available through their YouTube channel.
The Judicial Independence Award stands not only as recognition for SU4J's dedication but as a rallying call for legal systems worldwide to safeguard the vital role of the judiciary in maintaining democracy and the rule of law.
This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against oppression and the necessity for strength, solidarity, and resilience within our judicial framework.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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