Mary Smith becomes first woman Native American president-elect nominee
Mary L. Smith was named president-elect nominee of the American Bar Association becoming the first woman Native American president of the association in August 2023.
Each year, the ABA's Diversity and Inclusion Center provides an exhibit at National Affinity Bar Association Annual Conferences. At this exhibit table, we provide information about joining and participating in ABA membership and the specific activities and programs of the D&I Center and various Sections, Divisions, Forums, and Commissions of the ABA. Interested in a particular practice area or cause? Learn more about these groups below!
The COREJ focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to address social justice issues that stem from the intersection of race and ethnicity within the legal system.
The Commission on Disability Rights focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to secure full and equal participation by persons with mental, physical, and sensory disability in all areas of the legal profession.
The Hispanic Commission focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to educate lawyers on how best to serve, promote civic responsibility within, and address the key legal challenges facing Latino community in the United States.
The Diversity Commission focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to increase racial and ethnic diversity and inclusion in all areas of the legal profession.
The SOGI Commission focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to secure full and equal participation by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons in all areas of the legal profession.
The Commission on Women focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to secure full and equal participation of women in all areas of the legal profession.
The Pipeline Council focuses on developing and supporting initiatives and research to increase diversity in the educational pathway to the profession.
The Advisory Council is comprised of representatives from various ABA Entities and National Affinity Bar Associations who meet quarterly to collaborate and communicate on diversity and inclusion efforts and initiatives.
ABA fellowships put you in a position to grow, learn, and succeed through ABA member group involvement. These fellowships offer hands-on experience and training for law students and young lawyers. Some even fund your travel to join in-person meetings around the country.
Central clearinghouse of ABA-related information and resources for attorneys, the legal profession and the public on a wealth of issues addressing bias, racism and prejudice in the justice system and society.
Representatives from the National Affinity Bar Associations discuss how they are identifying and addressing inequities and share their strategies for breaking down the barriers of bias, racism, and discrimination.
Programs, resources, and information across the American Bar Association
Choose from hundreds of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion CLEs (they can also help you meet your Elimination of Bias/Diversity and Inclusion credits!).
For the past several years, the ABA D&I Center has connected with judges, lawyers, law students and activists during our exhibits at National Affinity Bar conferences. Stay up to date with D&I Center happenings on social media @ABADiversity. We are excited to build a more equitable and just future together!
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