From the Desk of the Executive Director: CLA’s first “Leg Day” in the Capital

By Ona Alston Dosunmu

The end of March was a week of “firsts” for the California Lawyers Association. On Wednesday, March 20, we were welcomed by policymakers at the State Capital for our first ever organization-wide “Leg Day.” From the Judicial Council to Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson and Assembly Member Mark Stone to a representative from Governor Newsom’s office, each speaker expressed appreciation for the deep expertise of CLA members and the importance of hearing from us on issues big and small. Our ability to draw so many illustrious speakers and the seriousness with which they addressed our members is proof positive that we are well-positioned to advocate on behalf of the attorneys of the State of California.

The end of March was a week of “firsts” for the California Lawyers Association.  On Wednesday, March 20, we were welcomed by policymakers at the State Capital for our first ever organization-wide “Leg Day.” From the Judicial Council to Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson and Assembly Member Mark Stone to a representative from Governor Newsom’s office, each speaker expressed appreciation for the deep expertise of CLA members and the importance of hearing from us on issues big and small. Our ability to draw so many illustrious speakers and the seriousness with which they addressed our members is proof positive that we are well-positioned to advocate on behalf of the attorneys of the State of California.

Thursday night we welcomed our Sacramento-based members and the Sacramento legal community to a reception at our new headquarters at 400 Capitol Mall. As evidenced by the photo, it was quite the party!

We wrapped up the week with a productive Board of Representatives meeting. Among other things, the Board voted to exercise CLA’s right of first refusal on additional office space. While we have occupied the current space for a mere three months, CLA’s single conference room is in high demand by its sections to use for executive committee meetings and continuing legal education sessions. Adding adjacent office space will provide more space for sections, members and staff to meet, work and advance the interests of the California legal community.