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We are only one month into the year, but what a month it has been. Within the first few days of the new year, three people lost their lives from interactions with LAPD: Keenan Anderson, 31, Oscar Leon Sanchez, 35, and Takar Smith, 45. The emotional magnitude of this unfortunate reality within our community is only multiplied by the national news of the death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of the Memphis Police Department. On behalf of the Langston Bar Association, I send my condolences to not only the family of the men mentioned here, but also all the families who carry grief and despair from losing a loved one at the hands of a police officer. So as we enter into this Black History month, I urge us to acknowledge the progress of those before us while simultaneously recognizing the long road that we have ahead.
The current state of this country encouraged me to establish the theme of this Langston year: “Reigniting Our Purpose and Championing Service.” The upcoming Langston Gala on February 11th will be the first step in aligning this organization with our 2023 theme by honoring community leaders, who have and continue to move the needle towards impactful change. The Gala will also provide me with the tremendous honor of addressing all of you during my Presidential Message, where I will explain what a year of “Reigniting Our Purpose and Championing Service” means for Langston members and the greater community at large. It is my hope that the adoption of this theme ignites a fire into the hearts of Langston members and supporters this month as well as the months to come.
Lastly, even if you were unable to secure a ticket to our upcoming and proudly sold out Langston Gala, we shall stand united in the celebration of awarding $150,000 in scholarships to 13 impressive and dynamic Black law students.
Thank you for your continuous support of Langston Bar Association.
Stephen A. King, Esq.
President, John M. Langston Bar Association
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