Meriden – The Connecticut Bar Association (CBA), in partnership with the Connecticut Bar Foundation (CBF), the CBF James W. Cooper Fellows, and Quinnipiac University School of Law, co-hosted a special film premiere on April 2, celebrating the history and contributions of attorneys of color in Connecticut.
Held at Quinnipiac University School of Law, the event featured a film presentation highlighting four trailblazing attorneys of color in Connecticut: Past CBA President Amy Lin Meyerson, Marilyn Diaz, M. Nawaz Wahla, and John Rose, Jr.
The film, developed as part of the CBF’s History of Attorneys of Color project, which is co-sponsored by the CBA, preserves and amplifies the voices, experiences, and achievements of these legal pioneers. The broader project aims to document and celebrate the rich history of attorneys of color in Connecticut while inspiring future generations of legal professionals.
Following the screening, attendees participated in a discussion reflecting on the film’s subjects’ lasting impact on the legal community and the importance of continuing efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession.
“The History of Attorneys of Color Film preserves the firsthand stories of trailblazing attorneys of color who broke systemic barriers, built lasting organizations, and expanded access to the legal profession against extraordinary odds. Paired with a living, community-contributed timeline, the project ensures these contributions are documented, honored, and used to educate and motivate attorneys of color for years to come,” stated CBA Director of Access to Justice and Equity Song Kim, who serves on the History of Attorneys of Color Committee responsible for the creation of the video.
The event underscores the CBA’s ongoing commitment to advancing equity in the legal profession and recognizing the individuals whose contributions have helped shape Connecticut’s legal landscape.
For more information about the History of Attorneys of Color project visit ctbarfdn.org/fellows/programs/hoaoc.