On October 13, 2011 Attorney General Eric Holder attended "Champions of Change," an event to honor and recognize the work of legal leaders who are dedicate their professional lives to closing the justice gap in America.

The event, co-sponsored by the White House Office of Public Engagement and the Department of Justice Access to Justice Initiative, featured 16 leaders from across the country who were recognized for their work in public interest law and providing legal services to people throughout the country who cannot afford them.

Attorney General speaks about the recipients of the White House's "Champions of Change" honors.

“It’s a privilege to be among so many remarkable individuals who – because of their commitment to progress and to using their skills and talents to improve the lives of others – have been designated by President Obama as Champions of Change. Across the country, their work is allowing us to address and overcome our most pressing legal challenges and live up to our nation’s highest ideals.”

Attorney General Holder joined the panel to recognize the honor recipients and discuss pressing issues facing disadvantaged members of society.

Students, professors, clinicians, pro bono directors and law librarians from 118 law schools nationwide submitted discussion questions and viewed the event via live-stream on the Internet.

Senior Counselor for Access to Justice Mark Childress also spoke on the panel.The Access to Justice Initiative was launched by the Department of Justice in March 2010.The initiative seeks to ensure that the justice system is fair and accessible to all, irrespective of wealth and status, and that the justice system delivers fair outcomes efficiently.

The discussion included conversations on issues such as how to pursue a career in public interest law; how best to assist disadvantaged members of society through legal knowledge and skills; and how to help specific segments of the population, such as tribal members, individuals facing foreclosure and those needing legal representation.