Celebrating Black Women in Leadership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2024
Black Women are redefining the narrative of leadership and leaving an indelible mark on our city and nation.
OUR VOICES MATTER, OUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS AND OUR LEADERSHIP MATTERS.
The Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, Inc., (BWL) proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of Black women in leadership roles throughout our city and beyond.
From the corridors of power to the forefront of justice, Black women are making history and shaping the future of Los Angeles with their unwavering commitment, passion, and dedication to service. Los Angeles proudly welcomed the historic election of Karen Bass as the first Black woman to hold the position of Mayor of Los Angeles. Culver City made history on December 11, 2023, as the City Council voted unanimously to elect the first black woman mayor, Yasmine-Imani McMorrin.
We must also recognize the groundbreaking leadership of Hon. Samantha Jessner, the first Black woman presiding judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court, as well as Ibiere Seck, the first Black woman to serve as the president of the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles. Furthermore, we commend exceptional trailblazers such as Jeannine Y. Taylor, current president of the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles. We celebrate Amber Finch, Tanya L. Greene, Kimberly C. Carter, and Jamilla Harris, who are spearheading change as leaders and managing partners at leading law firms in our city. Additionally, we take immense pride in the leadership of Michelle Beale Bagners, the City Attorney of Pasadena and the monumental achievements of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris.
As the President of the Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, I am profoundly inspired by the immense impact that these extraordinary women have made, and continue to make, within our community. Their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for all. Black women are not just breaking barriers – they are redefining the narrative of leadership. We are a testament to the enduring legacy of Black women as leaders, advocates, and catalysts for change. Our commitment to service, equity, and justice is unwavering, and we are here to stay. Together, let us continue to uplift, celebrate, and support the invaluable contributions of Black women lawyers and leaders in Los Angeles and beyond.
Ronnivashti Whitehead Otieno
BWL President
