Akin Secures Third Statue Placement in U.S. Capitol

(Washington, D.C.) – Akin is proud to share that a pro bono engagement led by Katie Brossy, senior counsel in the firm’s American Indian policy & regulation practice, has resulted in the installation of a bronze sculpture honoring American civil rights activist Daisy Bates in Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol. The firm represented the Arkansas Secretary of State in this effort.

Bates played a pivotal role in the Little Rock Integration Crisis of 1957, emerging as a central figure in the fight for racial equality. Known as the “First Lady of Little Rock,” she tirelessly advocated for the integration of Little Rock Central High School during her tenure as the head of the town’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People chapter.

“We are honored to have played a role in bringing Daisy Bates’s story to the Capitol and ensuring that her legacy is immortalized for generations to come,” said Don Pongrace, leader of Akin’s American Indian policy & regulation practice. “Her indomitable courage and unwavering commitment to civil rights were instrumental in the fight for equality, and her statue serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing work to achieve justice for all.”

This marks the firm’s third successful placement in the Statuary Hall Collection. The Bates statue joins those of Ponca Chief and civil rights leader Standing Bear, both sculpted by artist Benjamin Victor, as well as renowned writer Willa Cather. Katie led the firm’s pro bono representation of the Chief Standing Bear Trail Foundation and Willa Cather National Statuary Hall Selection Committee in those efforts, respectfully.

“It has been an incredible privilege to work on these projects and to help bring these important figures to life in such a meaningful way,” said Katie. “Each of these individuals made a profound impact on our country, and their statues serve as a testament to their enduring legacies.”

The Daisy Bates dedication will be live-streamed today by the House Recording Studio.

Akin is a leading international law firm with more than 900 lawyers and advisors in offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

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