BY: ERIN M. WILSON
Originally Published: ISBA’s Standing Committee on Women and the Law: The Catalyst (May 2024)
After multiple years on the Standing Committee on Women and the Law, and my marathon chair term, I am happy to transition you all to amazing new leadership!
As I reflect upon my time on this committee, during which both of my children were born, I opened my own practice, and have learned how to be a bar leader, I remembered some of the amazing work that we did together.
Below are some initiatives that the Standing Committee is proud to have started:
The Janes Program
In October 2023, after months of planning and advocating, we viewed HBO’s documentary The Janes, had an amazing panel discussing the Dobb’s decision, and ended with a networking reception.
International Women’s Day Tea
We started this five years ago to honor and celebrate International Women’s Day, and it has grown each year to sold out crowds. Please always continue this tradition.
Carole K. Bellows - Women of Influence Award
The Carole K. Bellows Women of Influence Award is presented by the Illinois State Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Women and the Law. Not only are we amazing at promoting each other, now we have our own award to present.
Happy Hour in Heels
We created FLASH - The Force of Lawyers Against Sexual Harassment, made of leaders from various bar associations. We just had our first annual Happy Hour in Heels, to bring awareness and advocate to end sexual harassment in the legal profession. There were opportunities for guests to donate to WINGS domestic violence shelter, network, enjoy refreshments, and be entertained by our male allies who showed up in high heels!
These are just a few highlights. There is so much more. The spa days, breakfasts before meetings, volunteering, promoting each other, supporting each other, I could go on. I am incredibly grateful for everyone here, for our past chairs, the future of the committee, and raising awareness on women’s issues in the legal profession. Thank you for letting me be unapologetically me, and letting me sometimes ask for forgiveness and not permission!
NOTICE: This blog is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as providing legal advice. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding this blog post.