Samuel K. Ford
It is truly an honor to serve as the 50th President of the Alabama Lawyer’s Association (“ALA”) for the 2023-2024 administration. As our organization enters its 52nd year of existence, it is important that we remember the underlying mission of our organization, the arduous paths blazed by our founding members, and most importantly, how the fight for civil rights and equal justice is a never-ending fight. Hence, for this year, ALA has adopted the theme of “The Endless Fight for Civil Rights and Equal Justice.”
During the upcoming year, ALA will focus its efforts in the areas of education, legislative reapportionment, economic empowerment and membership growth. Our Executive Board has constructed a platform around these areas and we look forward to introducing the particulars of our plan throughout the year. Specifically, ALA will assist in advocating for equitable congressional maps that will generate increased representation of African American communities throughout Alabama. ALA will also generate funds through its Annual Charity Golf Classic with H2OLS Wealth Management Solutions, LLC to support ALA’s Annual Law Student Summer Clerkship and Mentorship Programs.
There are approximately 1,494 African American attorneys licensed to practice law in Alabama and Black attorneys make up roughly 8% of the State Bar’s membership. It is evident that ALA’s future depends upon a solid membership base. Hence, ALA will channel its membership efforts to the pipeline leading to the legal profession and will expand its social media presence to attract new members from across the State.
Today, I am inviting you to join ALA or renew your membership. Our Annual Meeting will be held May 16-18, 2024 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and will end with our Annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala where we honor judges and advocates from across the State who have made a significant contribution to the legal profession and our organization.
On behalf of ALA’s entire Executive Board, we are excited about the opportunities that await us during the next year and we look forward to carrying the mission of ALA forward.
