The Massachusetts Black Women Attorneys seek to ensure the equitable administration of justice, particularly as applied to women of color. The MBWA is similarly concerned with social policy and civil rights issues in the greater minority community.
About MBWALift Every Voice, Empower, Lead, Unite and Protect
Welcome to Our Website
Thank you for visiting our website. We are a not-for-profit
professional bar association dedicated to addressing the
concerns of Black women attorneys, the Black community,
and the greater Boston community at large. These concerns
include racism and sexism in the legal profession, and equal
employment opportunities, among other challenges that
Black women attorneys face.
Our organization is committed to actively promoting the
advancement and recognition of attorneys, judges, law
professors and students within every facet of the legal
community and beyond. MBWA encourages community
engagement, supports attorney wellbeing, and offers
members a forum where attorneys gain the knowledge and
experience to advance their legal careers.
We invite you to subscribe to our email list or contact us at
info@massblackwomenattys.org to learn more about our
organization and upcoming events.
President's Welcome
Dear MBWA Members, Friends, and Supporters,
It is a true honor and privilege to serve as the 46th President of Massachusetts Black Women Attorneys (MBWA).
When I first started law school, I sought a community where I would feel welcomed and supported. MBWA became that essential network, offering guidance from strong Black women attorneys. MBWA was integral to my success in law school and continues to support my legal career today. As President, I hope to impart wisdom to law students and early-career attorneys while also fostering a supportive community for all Black women attorneys in Massachusetts.
Our theme for this year is "Rooted in Sisterhood, Rising in Purpose, Driven by Justice," which will guide all of our programming this year. We have already started the year strong by advocating for voting rights on the steps of the Massachusetts State House, engaging with the community on civic responsibility, and promoting environmental justice by planting trees at Malcolm X Park in Roxbury.
Having a supportive network within the legal community is critical to one's success. In Massachusetts, Black women represent only 2% of practicing attorneys. To that 2%, please know that you are not alone. I invite you to join MBWA and become part of this powerful sisterhood. In your workplace, you may be one of a few, but at MBWA, you are part of a vibrant network dedicated to mentorship and mutual success.
Many of us dreamed of becoming attorneys, but once achieved, navigating the next steps can be challenging. Part of rising to your purpose is setting clear goals. MBWA will offer programming focused on exploring different practice areas, building skills, and prioritizing mental and physical well-being.
Black women attorneys stand on a strong foundation built by civil rights icons such as Ida B. Wells, Mary Church Terrell, Fannie Lou Hamer, Mary McLeod Bethune and Shirley Chisholm. Throughout this year, we will honor their legacy by volunteering and partnering with community organizations that align with our mission.
I hope you will consider joining and supporting MBWA this year. I look forward to leading our organization, engaging with our members, and collaborating with other affinity bar associations and non-profit organizations.
In Sisterhood, Purpose, and Driven by Justice,
Araba Adjei-Koranteng
MBWA President
