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PILI's 2026 Theme: Meet the Moment

2026 is a year defined by rising need and responsibility.

Across Illinois, economic instability, evolving policies, and increasing strain on social safety nets are creating greater demand for civil legal assistance. At the same time, legal service providers and pro bono programs are navigating limited capacity and growing complexity.

PILI conducted a qualitative survey and thematic analysis to better understand what this critical juncture requires. The response from our community was clear: this is an “all hands on deck” chapter for access to justice.

Respondents described 2026 as a critical juncture—a moment of rising action, mounting tension, and opportunity for leadership. They emphasized both urgency and possibility. While feelings of burnout and being overwhelmed are real, so too is the legal community’s power to respond when connected and mobilized.

That is where PILI comes in.

PILI serves as the bridge across Illinois’ legal ecosystem—connecting law students, recent law school graduates and PILI Alumni as well as pro bono volunteers and the larger public interest law community to transform individual goodwill into coordinated impact. We strengthen the infrastructure that allows pro bono service and public interest law to thrive.

Meeting the moment means:

  • Expanding pro bono participation and filling gaps in the delivery of legal services through pro bono work
  • Supporting the next generation of public interest and pro bono lawyers
  • Strengthening coordination across the public interest law community
  • Ensuring more Illinois residents can access the legal help they need

Progress does not happen automatically. Justice does not move forward on its own.

It moves when we act.

This year, we call on the Illinois legal community to step into this chapter together—with clarity, courage, and commitment.

Meet the Moment.
Your action today shapes justice tomorrow.

We can't do this work without you! Learn how to get involved:

SAVE THE DATE! Join PILI at one of our events in 2026:

Check out our entire listing of upcoming programs and events

For more information about PILI, our work and how you can support us, please contact PILI's Executive Director, Michael Bergmann, by email or at 312-832-5129.

Prior year's themes: 2020: Defining Justice, 2021: Gateway to Justice, 2022: Take the Initiative, 2023: A Community of Service, 2024: Empowered to Advocate, and 2025: Stand for Justice