The Washington Bar Association (WBA) is a voluntary bar association located in the Washington, District of Columbia area, whose members are predominantly African-American attorneys.
The Washington Bar Association was founded in 1925 by a group of prominent African-American attorneys, including Charles Hamilton Houston, George E.C. Hayes, and J. Franklin Wilson.[1]
The WBA was created simultaneously with the National Bar Association, and is an affiliate chapter of the NBA.[2]
The WBA works to advance Houstonian jurisprudence, defined as "Social change through application of laws governing equal rights, due process, and other legal principles."[2]
The organization serves to protect and advance the interests of its members and of all African-Americans as they navigate a social and judicial system in which disparate treatment of minorities continues to occur.[2]
In 1975, the WBA established the tradition of awarding the Houston Medallion of Merit to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to Charles Hamilton Houston's ideals and jurisprudence. This award is presented at the WBA's annual Law Day Gala. [3]
References
- ^ "WBA Founders'". Washington Bar Association. Retrieved 2011-09-04.
- ^ a b c "History and Mission". Washington Bar Association. Retrieved 2011-09-04.
- ^ "The Charles Hamilton Houston Medallion of Merit". Washington Bar Association. Retrieved 2011-09-04.
External links