This Black History Month, we can’t wait for systemic change to happen

It’s impossible to ignore the challenges Black women across America are facing today. Nationwide, Black women experience poverty at rates that far outpace their white counterparts. In the workplace, they have less access to mentorship and support, and are significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. Two years after Roe v. Wade was overturned, Black women–already disproportionately hurt by the ruling–have seen their access to life-saving healthcare dwindle further than ever.

This Black History Month, it’s never been more clear to me that we cannot wait for systemic change to happen. Whether the issues affecting Black communities are on the ballot this election season or not, we need systemic change now.

In the Bay Area, Black women are pursuing legal careers through apprenticeship, building economic security for themselves, their families, and communities for years to come.

These are women making incredible gains in their legal careers. This last year alone, Donzahniya, a member of our 2018 cohort, helped lead unionization at her workplace, the East Bay Community Law Center, which led to across-the-board salary increases for all her colleagues. Under the tutelage of civil rights icon, Walter Riley, Lauren, of our 2019 cohort, helped prepare four lawsuits defending civil liberties and increasing police accountability.

I don’t have to tell you that Black women like Donzahniya and Lauren have the grit, drive, and skill to become licensed attorneys. Your gift of $50 ensures that they don’t have to do it alone.

Help us sustain programming that provides women of color the tools, resources, and support they need to complete California's law apprenticeship program and become attorneys. Please give now.

With gratitude,

Rachel Johnson- Farias