For almost 50 years, the United States has designated the entire month of February as Black History Month, an opportunity to celebrate the victories and progress in the ongoing fight for racial justice, as well as a reminder that there is still much work to be done. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized this annual observance, urging Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history." Black history is American history. It is a testament to liberation, perseverance, and the countless contributions of Black trailblazers, from Macon Bolling Allen to Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

At Notre Dame Law School, we observe Black History Month by spotlighting our Black Law Students Association (BLSA), a student organization that was established in 1972 and a chapter of the National Black Law Students Association. Led by an executive board, BLSA is committed to increasing the number of culturally responsible Black and minority attorneys who excel academically, succeed professionally, and influence the community positively. BLSA's mission includes fostering solidarity between Black law students, alumni, faculty, and staff; working with members of the Law School community to promote issues of social importance and create greater inclusivity; and addressing the pressing Civil Rights issues of the day. Through mentorship, advocacy, and professional development, BLSA prepares its members to excel in the legal field and serve the community with purpose.

The 2024-2025 BLSA Executive Board reflects on why Black history continues to inspire them, what drives their pursuit of law, and the legacy they hope to leave as a "different kind of lawyer."

Nicholas Smith

President, Black Law Students Association

What does celebrating Black History Month mean for you?

"When I celebrate Black History Month, I’m celebrating the beauty in our differences and the awe-inspiring resilience of the African diaspora. Being born and raised in Jamaica has offered me a unique perspective on and deeper appreciation for Black History Month. I've been able to witness and be part of the magic that happens here when we bring our differences and join together in pursuit of a common goal, whether you are from the U.S. or elsewhere."

What legacy do you want to leave as a future legal practitioner?

"I honestly feel like being Jamaican is my superpower, and as a future legal practitioner, I would like to be remembered for the innovativeness and authentic Jamaicanness I bring to legal problem-solving. In Jamaica, we have a saying that goes 'wi likkle but wi tallawah.' Roughly translated, it means that we may be small, but we are strong, we are mighty, and can do anything. As a legal practitioner, I want my legacy to be that I took the 'tallawah' approach in service of my clients and community, displaying strength and might against seemingly insurmountable odds."

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Peri Chantelle Warren

Vice President, Black Law Students Association

 

What does celebrating Black History Month mean for you?

"Celebrating Black History Month is a time to honor my family, ancestors, and those who have paved the way for our people and culture across the Diaspora. It’s a moment of recentering—returning to the essence of resistance and resilience."

What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

"At a micro level, my father, an ND Law alum, inspired me to pursue a career in law—he’s still the best lawyer I know. On a broader scale, I wanted to expand my skill set as a creative branding consultant through a legal lens. Ownership and protection are at the core of legal advocacy, yet many creatives—especially creators of color—lack the resources and representation needed to protect their work. I’m driven to bridge that gap, engaging both the left and right sides of my brain."

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Allyson Lazarre

Treasurer, Black Law Students Association

 

What does celebrating Black History Month mean for you?

"To me, celebrating Black History Month means not only celebrating American Black History but as the daughter to Haitian parents, it means celebrating Haitian Black History."

What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

"Wanting to create a better and more fair justice system inspired me to go into law. Specifically, the disproportionate rate at which Black people are wrongfully convicted."

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Jennifer Osita

Secretary, Black Law Students Association

 

What does celebrating Black History Month mean for you?

"Celebrating Black History Month is celebrating a part of me that feels so close in time but extends to centuries past. It is a celebration of my ancestors' hard work and accomplishments."

What legacy do you want to leave as a future legal practitioner?

"I want my legacy to be that I was fair, thorough, and personable. I hope that anyone who crosses my path will look upon me with positivity and esteem."

Originally published by Arienne Calingo at law.nd.edu on February 13, 2025.