Dear Family,

It is with immense gratitude that I first start by thanking you for your service and support of the Cook County Bar Association.  As we enter the next chapter of the 111th bar year, our journey towards progression may seem distant, but our collective action and resilience are far stronger. I am deeply inspired by our past and committed to continuing the cherished legacy of our founders. That is why the theme for this bar year is Rooted in Legacy. Rising in Power. It honors our past, energizes our future, and reflects our enduring commitment to justice, unity, and progress. As President, my priorities this year include:

• Cultivating meaningful relationships with community stakeholders;
• Increasing access to justice;
• Strengthening the pipeline of success for the next generation of lawyers; and
• Providing quality professional development resources for our members.

Since my installation as President of the Cook County Bar Association, I want to share this report about my activities in representing our beloved organization. As we build on the momentum outlined below, please make sure to stay engaged with us by renewing your membership dues and joining one of our committees. I look forward to working with each of you in the future.

In progress and unity,

Antonio C. Lee

111th President

Cook County Bar Association 

VIDEO - Watch a recap from our 111th Installation and Awards Banquet

On June 27th, we hosted our 111th Installation and Awards Banquet at the Field Museum with nearly 700 people in attendance. To dive deeper into the excitement of this momentous occasion, we invite you to watch the video below and visit our Facebook page for photographs that captured the spirit of unity, celebration, and excellence. 

Congratulations to our Board of Directors

Recent Interviews

During the months of June and July, I was featured in publications by The Pillar, which was founded by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, the GA News Gazette, and Atlanta's John Marshall Law School. Through these interviews, I reinforced our commitment to uplifting our communities during this time of need. Please click the links below for more details.

Meeting with Chicago Mayor

Brandon Johnson

On July 9th, I had the honor and privilege of meeting with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. During our meeting, we discussed opportunities for CCBA to collaborate with the Mayor's Office in amplifying our perspectives on issues that target our communities. We also discussed existing programming that CCBA offers to students, such as our Job Fair, and legal workshops offered to Chicago residents. Lastly, I highlighted the importance of expanding access to legal work in light of the state of employment for Black legal professionals.

Black Women's Equal Pay Day -

A Call to Action

In honor of Black Women's Equal Pay Day, I collaborated with Jennifer King and Ivory Djahouri to host a phenomenal CLE on July 24th entitled "Power in the Paycheck: The Fight for Black Women's Economic Justice." CCBA also launched a social media campaign to raise awareness on Facebook and LinkedIn. Although we addressed the daunting statistics and realities faced by Black women, we found a sense of comfort in knowing that circumstances will improve through our collective action. I am also pleased to announce that we recorded this CLE, and will start an on-demand series for CCBA members!

Thank you to our panelists IL. Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, Cherita Ellens, and Alexis White. I also thank our Premiere Sponsor, Power Rogers, Event Title Sponsor, Riley, Safer, Holmes, & Cancila, and our host ArentFox Schiff. Lastly, thank you to our co-sponsors for supporting such a successful event.

National Bar Association's Centennial Convention

Beginning July 26th, I celebrated the National Bar Association’s (NBA) Centennial Convention. During the conference, I spoke at NBA’s 40 Under 40 Awards Gala, attended a joint collaboration event hosted by CCBA’s Legislative Committee, coached our Region VII representative in the MLK national competition, chaired and hosted NBA’s Luminary Awards Ceremony, attended the Legacy Reception hosted by Power Rogers, and voted by my peer-presidents as an Affiliate Representative to NBA’s Board of Governors. 

Congratulations to our very own NBA Past President Wiley S. Adams on an outstanding year! I also congratulate CCBA Past President Justice Freddrenna M. Lyle on her recent position as Chair of NBA's Judicial Council, Danielle Pinkston on her position as NBA Secretary, and Chicago’s local host committee for their outstanding work in planning the convention. Lastly, congratulations to my good friend Ashley L. Upkins, as the new NBA President!

Bud Billiken Parade and VIP Breakfast

The Bud Billiken Parade is known as the largest African-American parade in the United States, and America’s largest back-to-school event held on the south side of Chicago. It also is one of the most important events to keep young adults away from violence during the summer months. This parade holds a special place in my heart, because I participated in the tradition through my involvement as a member of the South Shore Drill Team (SSDT) since 2005. Marching in this parade brought back so many cherished memories as I assisted the team through dress rehearsal and the parade. Earlier that day, I also attended the Chicago Defender Charities’ VIP Breakfast and connected with many community stakeholders, including Chicago 6th Ward Alderman William Hall. As the Bud Billiken Parade celebrates “96 years of Parading in Excellence,” I look forward to joining them on the road to 100.