Black Women Lawyer's Association of Greater Chicago, Inc.

The Black Women Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. (BWLA) is one of the fastest growing bar associations in Illinois, serving the Chicago metropolitan area and across the Midwest since its founding in 1987. BWLA represents African-American female attorneys, judges, law professors, and law students, offering comprehensive programming designed to advance professional excellence and career development. The organization provides extensive educational programs, mentoring and networking opportunities, community outreach initiatives, and scholarship awards to law students pursuing legal careers. BWLA has developed specialized workshops and programs tailored to support African-American female lawyers in public and private practice, the judiciary, and academia, drawing upon the diverse expertise and backgrounds of its membership. The association recognizes the unique professional challenges facing minority practitioners, including professional isolation, pay inequities, and systemic barriers, and remains committed to addressing these critical issues through targeted programming and diversity initiatives. BWLA actively partners with other organizations to create positive change in the legal workplace, promoting the inclusion of African-American attorneys across law firms, governmental agencies, corporations, and the judiciary. Through its various committees focused on community service, corporate counsel, government services, law firm practice, and young lawyers, BWLA delivers targeted support and resources. The organization has earned recognition for honoring notable African-American women attorneys and civic leaders who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and society. Based in Chicago, BWLA continues its 37-year legacy of excellence, sisterhood, and service to the legal community.