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NEWSLETTER

February 2026

Greetings,

This year began with a bang, and it reminds us why Langston’s work remains essential. Since the start of the year, we have seen renewed challenges to the Constitution, civil rights, and democratic norms. This climate demands vigilance, clarity, and leadership from the legal community, particularly from those committed to equal justice and the protection of democratic institutions.

Nonetheless, this year’s Black History Month is shaping up to be an exciting time for Langston. The month brings two signature events that reflect both purpose and progress. From February 5–8, the Ralph Lauren × Langston Shopping Event offers an opportunity to support Langston’s scholarship program while raising Langston’s profile through partnership with a global brand. 

The month culminates on February 21 with the Langston Gala, the largest and most anticipated event of the year. The Gala is more than a celebration or the installation of officers and committee chairs; it is a declaration of resolve by the John M. Langston Bar Association community to continue our legacy of excellence while meeting the demands of this critical moment in history. As we gather, we recommit ourselves to leadership, service, and the unwavering defense of civil rights and democracy.

Onward and upward,

Ludlow B. Creary II, Esq.

President

The John M. Langston Bar Association

Lifetime Member Spotlight

Jabari A. Willis

Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo

Langston Celebrates Lifetime Member Jabari Willis on His Equity Partnership!

The John M. Langston Bar Association is proud to congratulate Lifetime Member Jabari A. Willis on his elevation to Equity Partner at Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (AALRR), effective January 1, 2026. Mr. Willis has built a distinguished career in labor, employment, and education law, representing public and private sector clients with dedication and excellence. His leadership and commitment to the profession exemplify the high standards of Langston’s membership. Please join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement!

(View Bio)

Lifetime Member Spotlight

Damon Brown

Board of Supervisors
San Diego County Counsel

Congratulations to Past President Damon Brown on his new role as San Diego County Counsel.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2026

5:30 PM 8:30 PM

We’re thrilled to announce that Mona Shah, former Executive Director of SABA North America, will be joining us as our special guest speaker for Law Unboxed: Rethinking Legal Careers — and this is one you do not want to miss.



Mona brings a rare, powerful perspective at the intersection of law, leadership, academia, nonprofit work, and mediation. Her career embodies exactly what this panel is about: breaking free from the myth that success in law is linear — and proving that a diverse toolkit is not a detour, but a superpower.

What to expect: A candid, no-filter conversation about what legal careers really look like — compensation, prestige, pivots, work-life balance, purpose, and everything in between — featuring attorneys who’ve built bold careers across Big Law, government, in-house, recruiting, nonprofits, and startups.

Moderated by: Devika Tandon

Panelists: Puja Bhatia, Priya Gulati, Shalini Manaktala, Hassan Shaikh, Marize Alphonso, and Shilpa Anand

Special Guest Speaker: Mona Shah

Huge thanks to Harsh Parikh and the incredible Nixon Peabody team for hosting this important and timely conversation.

Come curious. Leave empowered

United States District Court

Central District of California

United States Magistrate Judge
Opening Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026

Closing Date: February 27, 2026

Counts Law Firm

Associate Attorney (Entry Level) - Los Angeles, CA

Counts Law Firm

Part-Time Litigation Attorney - Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office

Current Job Opportunities

Federal Public Defender, Central District of California

Legal Assistant - Riverside

Federal Public Defender, Central District of California

Trial Attorney - Riverside

UCLA School of Law

Emmett Institute Fellowship in Environmental Law and Policy 2026-2028

City of Oakland

Deputy City Attorney IV, Senior

SCR Law APLC

Associate Attorney

To empower leadership, advance the professional development of its membership, and promote the administration of justice in the Black community and the community at large.

John M. Langston Bar Association

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