The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) recently hosted a luncheon bringing together lawyers from around the world attending the Southwestern Institute for International and Comparative Law's (SWIICL) 58th Academy of American and International Law with participants attending two of the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration's (ILEA) programs: the Texas Command Leadership Academy and the 139th School of Police Supervision.
This unique event, held on June 8 at CAIL's education center in Plano, Texas, provided Academy participants with a human-level perspective on American policing and facilitated cross-cultural connections within the room's legal and law enforcement communities. The luncheon proved to be a resounding success in promoting understanding that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
ILEA and SWIICL directors Gregory Smith and Jay Ray warmly welcomed the attendees, encouraging each participant to engage and learn about each other as they shared their meal. As the two institute leaders made their introductions, Ray highlighted the significance of the Academy, drawing attention to the symbolic flags hung over CAIL's atrium that represent the nations of the 3,300 Academy alums who have attended the program since its inception in 1964. Smith, in turn, took a moment to recognize the long legacy of excellence in law enforcement leadership education that reaches from coast to coast and across Canada since ILEA’s founding in 1957. He also highlighted individual leaders from the Dallas Police Department and other agencies such as, the Waco Police Department, Little Elm PD and Dallas County.
The luncheon's vibrant ambiance included an authentic taste of Texas with a delectable meal catered by Rudy's BBQ. Each table was thoughtfully arranged to have a mix of ILEA and Academy participants, facilitating dynamic conversations, and promoting cross-cultural exchange. As the attendees enjoyed their meal, discussions centered around the thought-provoking topics listed on cards placed at each table.
Towards the end of the luncheon, T.L. Cubbage, CAIL's president, gave closing remarks in which he emphasized the crucial role of events like this in bringing diverse groups together, fostering connections, and promoting mutual understanding within the legal and law enforcement communities that each, in their own ways, work to advance the rule of law by protecting the rights of others.
One ILEA participant, Terry Keely, representing the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, shared, "I think this luncheon showed we can get together to talk and learn from each other. Where you come from doesn't matter; we can all get along." Keely's words resonated with the spirit of the event, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, learning, and the celebration of unity despite diverse backgrounds.
MEDIA CONTACT: Karla Lárraga, Communications Officer
Email: klarraga@cailaw.org
Phone: 972-244-3436
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About The Center for American and International Law - Founded in 1947, The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) is a nonprofit institution based in Plano, Texas, dedicated to advancing justice and promoting the rule of law through the professional development of legal and law enforcement practitioners worldwide. Today, CAIL's educational institutes have established internationally recognized forums and programs addressing law enforcement administration, energy law, international and comparative law, transnational arbitration, law and technology, criminal justice, and other relevant topics. Thousands of lawyers and law enforcement officers from all 50 states and 130 countries have participated in CAIL programs.