The Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center's 15th Anniversary Event Recap
The Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center celebrated its 15th Anniversary with an inspiring evening at Jones Day in Washington, D.C. on October 9th 2025, highlighted by a dynamic Fireside Chat between Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland) and independent journalist Terry Moran.
Congressman Raskin’s passionate remarks about democracy and civic courage captivated the audience of advocates and supporters. “Fascism will not be the end of democracy,” he declared. “Democracy will be the end of fascism — right here in America.”
In a wide-ranging discussion that was both candid and hopeful, Congressman Raskin reflected on the Constitution, the resilience of democratic institutions, and the power of citizens to defend justice. “Democracies aren’t saved by pieces of paper or traditions,” he said. “They’re saved by people — regular folks who decide not to let it happen on their watch.”
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE DISCUSSION
The evening also recognized two distinguished advocates for civil rights as the Center’s 2025 Champions of Justice:
Seth Waxman, Partner, WilmerHale, and former Solicitor General of the United States
Bill O’Reilly, Retired Partner, Jones Day
Both were honored for their extraordinary commitment to advancing equality and defending the rule of law through litigation and leadership.
In addition, the Center proudly announced new grants to four nonprofit organizations pursuing landmark impact litigation (2026):
Amica Center for Immigrant Rights
JULIAN
Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Center for Gender and Refugee Studies
Read more about their cases here.
“We are honored to support organizations whose work reflects Barbara McDowell’s vision of using the law as a force for justice,” said Jerry Hartman, President and Chair of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center.
Since its founding in 2009, the Center has contributed nearly $2 million in grants to 57 organizations for 82 cases supporting impact litigation in areas including civil rights, immigration, gender equity, environmental justice, and voting rights.
Please click here to be directed to the Center’s YouTube page to hear from the incredible group of our 2025 grantees and click here to watch the event highlights.