This Black History Month marked more than a moment of reflection for the Capital City Lawyers Association (CCLA). It marked a milestone. In 2026, CCLA proudly celebrates its 35th anniversary, commemorating over three decades of service, mentorship, advocacy, and community engagement in Wake County and beyond.
Founded in 1991, CCLA has remained steadfast in its mission to improve the quality of life for the local citizenry—particularly in underrepresented communities—through service, scholarship, and education. This February, we emphatically honored that mission through meaningful programming that brought together attorneys, judges, law students, and community members in powerful and intentional ways.
Launching Our 35th Anniversary with Purpose
CCLA began Black History Month by sponsoring and participating in the Minority Outreach Conference, which brought together over 500 registered attendees from across North Carolina. This conference provided a critical platform for law students and attorneys to connect, share resources, and build relationships that will strengthen the future of the legal profession.
That same day, CCLA hosted its first Continuing Legal Education (CLE) program of the year, “Resilience in the Legal Profession,” at Campbell University School of Law. With over 90 attorneys and law students attending both in person and virtually, the program featured an esteemed panel of judges and legal leaders who shared candid reflections on navigating the profession with confidence, integrity, and perseverance. This CLE set the tone for CCLA’s 35th anniversary year: creating spaces where attorneys can grow, learn, and be supported.
Honoring the Past While Engaging the Present
As part of our commitment to education and historical reflection, CCLA partnered with the City of Raleigh Museum to host a Civil Rights–focused program examining the legal legacy of civil rights and its ongoing relevance today. This event reinforced the critical role attorneys play in protecting justice and advancing equity, while reminding attendees that the work of prior generations continues to shape our responsibilities today.
CCLA also brought the community together in celebration through our Black History Bingo Night at JUICED! Bar in Raleigh, creating a welcoming and vibrant environment for attorneys, families, and community members to connect. Events like these reflect CCLA’s belief that community-building is essential to professional growth and long-term impact.
A Legacy Beyond a Single Event
While many know CCLA for its signature Black Lawyers Ball, Black History Month highlighted the breadth of CCLA’s year-round programming. CCLA’s work extends far beyond a single evening. Our initiatives include:
- Continuing Legal Education programs designed to strengthen professional development
- Community partnerships and public service efforts
- Scholarship programs supporting future attorneys
- Mentorship and networking opportunities for attorneys at every stage of their careers
- Educational and cultural events that preserve and honor legal history
These efforts reflect a consistent commitment to uplifting both the legal profession and the communities we serve.
Building the Future While Honoring 35 Years of Excellence
Celebrating 35 years is not only about honoring the past— above all it is about building the future. Accordingly, CCLA remains focused on expanding its membership, increasing community engagement, and strengthening its impact across Wake County.
This anniversary year will include expanded programming, new partnerships, and continued opportunities for attorneys to grow professionally and personally through CCLA.
As we reflect on Black History Month and this important milestone, we are reminded that our strength lies in our community. The progress achieved over the past 35 years only exists because of the attorneys, judges, students, and supporters who believed in CCLA’s mission.
We invite you to be part of the next chapter.
Join Us
Become a member, attend our events, and help us continue this legacy of service, scholarship, and leadership.
Learn more and get involved at:
www.capitalcitylawyersnc.com
Together, we honor the past, empower the present, and shape the future.
