Retired Federal Judges Gather to Defend Judicial Independence Amid Rising Polarization

Event summary

  • National Civil Rights Museum hosts 'Justice in Balance' forum on Feb. 26, 2026, featuring four retired federal judges.
  • Panel includes Hon. Bernice B. Donald, Hon. Allyson K. Duncan, Hon. Jeremy D. Fogel, and Hon. James T. Giles.
  • Event part of Keep Our Republic’s national series on judicial independence and democracy.
  • Forum explores courts' role in civil rights, judicial independence amid political polarization.
  • Free public event livestreamed nationally from Memphis, TN.

The big picture

The forum underscores growing concerns over judicial independence as courts remain central to resolving societal conflicts. With declining public trust in democratic institutions, the event highlights the critical role of nonpartisan education in preserving the rule of law. The participation of pioneering African American judges reflects both progress and ongoing challenges in achieving equal justice under law.

What we're watching

Judicial Legitimacy
How the forum’s bipartisan messaging will impact public trust in the judiciary amid rising polarization.
Civic Engagement
Whether Keep Our Republic’s national series can sustain momentum in defending democratic institutions.
Historical Context
The pace at which civil rights progress will be tied to judicial independence in future legal battles.