Archive for February, 2010

On February 20, 2010, the George W. Crawford Black Bar Association celebrated Black History Month by giving back to the community, educating our members about our history, and encouraging our members be catalysts for change in our community.

Board Member Tokunbo Akinbajo organized the community service event. Dedicated volunteers, coffee in hand, piled into the kitchen at St. Luke’s Church in New Haven at 8:00 am in the morning to help serve breakfast to the growing homeless population in New Haven.

After the community service event, members made their way to the Dixwell Congregational Church in New Haven, the oldest formally recognized Black Church in the United States. The history committee at the Church, led by Committee Member Alexis Highsmith, prepared a historical overview of the Church and its history. The Committee highlighted some pioneer members of the Church. Among the members recognized were George W. Crawford, and former Mayor and State Senator John Daniels. Also recognized was former State Rep. William Dyson.

Our luncheon was organized by Board member Christine Jean-Louis. Our first keynote speaker was Victor Bolden, Corporation Counsel for the City of New Haven–who reminded us that we must both “transform and transcend.” Transform the laws and policies to improve the lives of the people in our communities, and transcend–that is, be forward thinking, understanding that behind us comes another generation, of future leaders, who will need to build on the path that we pave and the foundation we build.

Senator Toni Harp, our second keynote, spoke about current issues that plague our communities. She discussed disparities in education and incarceration, and commented that these areas were ripe for litigation, to address problems that for too long have crippled our communities. She also discussed openings to sit on hospital boards and commissions, and other opportunities to “transform and transcend.” She reminded Crawford members of the powerful role and position lawyers hold in the community as advocates, organizers, and leaders—and encouraged us to take our place.

At the end of the keynote speeches, Mr. Dyson became our third, unofficial keynote speaker. His inspirational speech provided concrete ideas for how Crawford and our members can become beacons of light in our communities, and take advantage of our unique positions, by pushing the envelope of change, forcing dialogue, and advocating for our communities.

If you would like to find out how you can become more involved in Crawford’s future programs, please contact us at info@georgecrawfordblackbar.org.