Vermont Lawyers March Honors VAAP
Vermont Lawyers March for the Rule of Law: A Call to Action and a Moment of Honor
On May 3 in Burlington, hundreds attorneys from across Vermont braved the rain and gathered in a historic show of solidarity to defend the rule of law and demand justice for immigrants and other marginalized Vermont communities. The Vermont Lawyers March was more than a protest—it was a rallying cry for action, compassion, and commitment to direct legal service. As the crowd moved through the streets, the message was clear: the legal community has a responsibility not just to speak out, but to step up. Stream Town Meeting TV’s coverage on YouTube: Watch here.
VAAP was deeply honored to be brought to the front of the march alongside some of the most dedicated advocates in our state: volunteer staff attorney Seth Lipschutz, Professor Brett Stokes of Vermont Law and Graduate School, and attorney Nathan Virag of the Association of Africans Living in Vermont. Standing with them was a humbling reminder of the collective strength and resolve of our legal community.
A Unified Message: Train, Volunteer, Defend
At the rally, Speaker after speaker emphasized the urgent need for attorneys to get trained through the Vermont Asylum Assistance Project (VAAP) and to volunteer for immigration legal defense. The call was nearly unanimous: we must build a robust, sustainable infrastructure for removal defense in Vermont. Prisoners’ Rights Office attorney Dawn Seibert called on advocates and litigators to seize this moment to get into VDOC facilities and build the long-overdue removal defense infrastructure. ACLU VT’s Harry Stark reminded us that while they continue to lead on impact litigation, the frontline need is for direct services. That’s where VAAP and volunteers come in.
The march and rally were not just symbolic—it was strategic. It brought together legal professionals, advocates, and community members to forge a path forward. The energy was electric, the commitment palpable. For those who couldn’t attend, you can watch the full slate of speeches here, view the list of signatories here, and explore media coverage from Manchester Journal, Seven Days, WCAX, and VTCNG.
What’s Next?
The Vermont Lawyers March was just the beginning. Now, we must channel this momentum into action. If you’re an attorney in Vermont, consider getting trained through VAAP. Volunteer your time. Show up for your community. The rule of law isn’t just a principle—it’s a promise. And it’s up to us to keep it.
