On Wednesday, July 11, the Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF) held its second Partners and Associates Diversity Reception of the summer, welcoming the African American legal community. In conjunction with the California Association of Black Lawyers and the Charles Houston Bar Association, this event drew nearly sixty lawyers, prospective and current law students as well as legal professionals. Hosted by Perkins Coie, firm partner Patrick Thompson provided opening remarks with Yolanda Jackson, BASF Executive Director, reminding everyone of the significance of the day and acknowledging the swearing-in of San Francisco’s newest and first African American woman Mayor, London Breed.

Much of the event’s success was predicated on presenting successful representations of African American attorneys, and facilitating interactions between partners and summer associates, where attorneys speak to their journey, share resources and act as potential mentors to aspiring and practicing lawyers. The ability to communicate that success as an African American attorney is not only possible, but supported by other phenomenal leaders ready and willing to support eager individuals looking to venture on the same path, made the event incredible to witness.

Additional remarks were brought by Eric Casher, Partner at Meyers Nave Riback Silver & Wilson and President of the Charles Houston Bar Association; Terrance Evans, Partner at Duane Morris and BASF Board Member; Andrew Houston, In-House Counsel, University of California Office of the President; and Terry Wiley from the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and Vice President of the National Bar Association.  Special thanks to all sponsors for their generous contributions.

More photos are posted on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sfbar.