Reflecting on being black in the legal profession
On February 14, the U of T Law chapter of the Black Law Students’ Association travelled to the national BLSA conference in Ottawa. The theme this year was “Pushing Excellence to Higher Heights,” and there was a significant focus on the benefits of mentorship, network building, and how students can increase black representation in the legal profession.
Alexander Ikejiani, counsel at the Department of Justice, Environmental Law, was the opening keynote speaker. He emphasized the importance of being in control of one’s identity and being prepared for any reaction to it. He acknowledged that black professionals are still likely to face hostility, ignorance, and the need to “prove ourselves” over and over again. He emphasized the need to be prepared to shine in any situation and to use others’ underestimation to one’s advantage.
The intersection of being black and female can be especially burdensome to professional growth. At a female-only panel on Saturday morning (aptly named “Sister to Sister”), the aim was to build each other up and remind students that it is not necessary to be Superwoman all the time. (A parallel “Brother to Brother” panel had the male students tackle issues unique to their intersectional identity).
One female student expressed guilt at not leading every black rights event, and asked the panelists about how to cope with that guilt. The panel, and audience, emphatically assured her that our main goal should be to receive a comprehensive education, just like every other student; there was no shame in not spearheading every cause. It was an encouraging message.
The panelists also took a few moments to discuss the complexities of black hair and professionalism. The verdict is in: it is not about natural hair or weaves—it is about confidence. We are all learning to accept and celebrate ourselves in all our beautiful variations; that is what to expect going forward. There was a wonderful array of braids, micro-braids, dreads, wigs, weaves, afros, twists, coloured, wrapped, gorgeous natural curls and more on display at the conference. We were a flurry of colour and expression and pride.
There was also a guided tour of the Supreme Court. While the gender-inclusive group photo of the justices was inspiring, it was a reminder of what was still missing—not a single justice appointed to the Court since it was established in 1875 has been black, or even non-white.
At the gala, Justice Marlyse Dumel of the Ontario Court of Justice was the keynote speaker. She encouraged attendees to not be afraid to reach for positions and opportunities outside of our comfort zones. She said the black community is a strong support network that can help us achieve and excel.
The BLSA Chapter of the Year was also announced: Thompson Rivers University took home the prize.
Closer to home, the U of T BLSA is planning a conference for black undergraduate students on March 2, to increase black representation at the law school.
Overall, the conference was inspiring, enlightening, and a whole lot of fun. While the event was dedicated to black law students, it is our aim, as the U of T BLSA, to shine alongside our friends and peers; we are grateful for their support and interest in the issues and triumphs within the black community. Please feel free to contact us about our experience at the conference. We can all benefit from more diversity in the legal profession.
*Rebecca Barclay Nguinambaye is an executive member of the U of T BLSA.
