At Ward Law, we believe in honoring the rich tapestry of Black experiences, stories, and contributions that shape our society every day. In celebration of Black History Month, we’re excited to share the following insights from our Associate Attorney, Renee Harris, on what this month means to her.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black history month presents a unique opportunity for us to expand our discussions beyond the well-known facts and notable achievements. This month serves as a platform to delve into the rich tapestry of experiences, stories, and specific cultural attributes across the diaspora.
One way to truly honor the essence of Black History Month is by shining a light on the everyday changemakers who are actively shaping and influencing our society, such as Courtney Hall. Courtney is a trailblazer who recently opened the first black-owned ultra-sound studio in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Courtney Hall’s initiative goes beyond entrepreneurship; it serves as a powerful advocacy platform for pregnant women of color and their families. In a society where representation and inclusivity are paramount, Hall’s contribution addresses a crucial gap, ensuring that the healthcare experiences of women of color are acknowledged and met with understanding.
Click Here for more on Courtney Hall.
Which contributions by Black Americans have made the most significant impact on your life?
Building on our acknowledgment of Black History Month, it is crucial to recognize that impactful contributions unfold every day, often going unnoticed. It’s a challenge to narrow down the profound inventions, courageous leaders, and zealous advocates to just a few.
As a lawyer, I find inspiration in the remarkable achievements of women like Sadie Alexander the first African American Lawyer in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Juanita Kidd Stout who made history by being appointed to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, becoming the first Black women in the country to serve on a state supreme court. Their groundbreaking roles not only shattered glass ceilings but also paved the way for future generations.
Sadie Alexander’s and Juanita Kidd Stout’s dedication to justice and excellence not only influenced the legal landscape but left an indelible mark on the trajectory of Black women in the legal profession. Their achievements serve as a testament to the resilience, intellect, and leadership present within the Black community.
As a young Black attorney, what are some of the things you do to make people more aware of the meaning and importance of Black History Month?
The focus of Black History Month has evolved beyond mere awareness to active engagement in programming and service. It is a time to ensure that the legacy of the Black community is not just acknowledged but carried forward in our daily lives through meaningful actions.
For me, service takes the form of mentorship, a commitment to being a resource for Black women across all facets of the legal profession. From reviewing personal statements to aiding in admission to the bar, I believe in leveraging my experiences and insights to support others in their professional journeys. My dedication to mentorship is deeply rooted in the invaluable relationships of mentors and sisterhood that have guided me along my legal path and, indeed, various aspects of life. It is through these connections that I have found strength, resilience, and a sense of shared purpose.
Additionally, in my role as a committee member of Women Owned Law, an organization that passionately champions diversity and inclusion for women entrepreneurs, I had the privilege of organizing a group event to attend this year’s Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performance at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. This event provides a unique opportunity for our members to immerse themselves in the richness of Black culture through the artistry of Alvin Ailey’s dance troupe. Women Owned Law is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion for women entrepreneurs in the legal profession. By combining our organization with the historical performing arts theater at the Kimmel Center, we were able to create a meaningful experience of shared exposure and cultural exchange. Events like these not only enrich our understanding of different cultures but also strengthen our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals in the legal community.
How would you describe your experience as a Black women who is pursuing a career as a lawyer? Is there anything specific that you would like to share about your journey?
As I reflect on my journey as an attorney, I can attest that it has been a path marked by growing pains, late nights entangled in case law, and the continuous pursuit of mastering the art of billing—typical challenges that many attorneys face. Yet, I consider myself blessed to have been raised with a strong foundation by my parents. Their teachings and the tools they provided me have been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and navigating the complexities of life.
In addition to the unwavering support from my family, I’ve had the privilege of being trained by phenomenal attorneys who, in their own right, have contributed to shaping legal history. As a Black woman in the legal profession, I want to acknowledge the individuals who have taken the time to demystify complicated judicial opinions and connect the legal dots. Their mentorship has made my experience in the legal community invaluable.
I encourage others, regardless of background, to consider joining affinity organizations while also reaching out to groups and individuals beyond their comfort zones. The legal industry, by its nature, is diverse, encompassing a wide range of legal issues, principle beliefs, and opinionated voices. Embracing this diversity enriches our understanding and enhances our ability to contribute meaningfully to the legal discourse.
I am proud to be part of a law firm that actively promotes diversity in all facets and is inclusive of initiatives that push against remaining barriers. We continuously foster an environment that values and celebrates the unique perspectives pushing the legal profession forWard.