Our highest courts should reflect our communities.
That’s why our mission is to empower law students of color to thrive in the appellate field.
Appellate courts decide what our laws mean and how they apply to all of us.
Appellate attorneys and judges make decisions that affect all aspects of our personal lives: our ability to vote, how we are policed, our religious freedom, the quality of our education, our workplaces, healthcare, immigration protections, and much more.
Appellate rulings impact diverse communities, and often disproportionately impact communities of color.
Yet people of color remain greatly underrepresented as both appellate attorneys and judges.
Over thirty percent of students enrolling in law school are students of color, yet very few end up in appellate practice. Too often, these students lack the information, resources, and confidence they need to pursue appellate opportunities.
We are here to change that.
It is easy to feel like you do not belong in a field where few, if any, people look like you. We believe that people of color not only belong, but that their diversity enriches and strengthens the appellate system for all of us.
That’s why our programming is designed to empower law students of color, particularly those most underrepresented, to become the next generation of lawyers and judges in our highest courts.
Some thoughts from our mentors and mentees
Howard University School of Law, Class of 2023
Community
We are building a community committed to ensuring our highest courts reflect the diverse lived experiences of all our communities.
Training
We develop innovative and hands-on appellate training opportunities led by renowned appellate practitioners.
Access
We create opportunities for law students of color to access appellate networks, mentors, clerkship support, and employers.
Awareness
We strive to bring more awareness about the importance of a diverse appellate system for all of us.