About the Bar
Our Mission
Since its inception in 1987, BWLA’s mission has been clear:
- To identify and address issues unique to African-American women lawyers, judges and those in academia;
- To improve the administration of justice by increasing the participation of African-American women and other minorities throughout the legal system; and
- To advance civil and human rights.
Our History
Founded in 1987, the Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. (“BWLA”) is one of the fastest growing bar associations in Illinois. BWLA is representative of African-American female attorneys, judges, law professors and law students in the Chicago metropolitan area and across the Midwest.
BWLA is committed to serving our membership, the greater legal community and the general public through educational programs, mentoring/networking opportunities, community outreach, scholarship awards to law students and various educational pipeline programs and initiatives. BWLA has recognized and rewarded notable African-American women attorneys and other civic leaders for their achievements and contributions to the legal community and society.
Board Meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month of each fiscal year.
Current Officers
2025-2026 BWLA Board of Directors
- President: Joan Akalaonu
- Vice President: Natanya Pope-Sohel
- Parliamentarian: Kina Arnold
- Treasurer: Alexandra Rogers
- Recording Secretary: Le'Loni English
- Corresponding Secretary: Kameelah Pointer
- Board Member at Large: Omoyele “Yele” Ajayi
- Board Member at Large: Amber Carpenter
- Board Member at Large: Cyerra McGowan
- Board Member at Large: Jade Peeples
- Ex-Officio: Weeya Young
More Information
321 South Plymouth Court
5th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
