Black Leadership in Law

Photo provided by Neoshia Roemer

Seton Hall Law’s Black Law Student Association hosted a panel highlighting Black history, identity and leadership in the legal profession.

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Seton Hall Law’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA) hosted a panel exploring Black history and identity in the legal profession on Thursday, Feb. 19. Panelists included Claudia Theagene ’25, Olalekan Sumonu ’22, Alex Harris ’22, Fruqan Mouzon ’98 and Jamel Gross-Cassel. They spoke to diverse audiences, including the law school community, alumni, Rutgers University students and local residents.

In the current climate of opposition to many diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the panel emphasized the importance of celebrating Black identities in the legal profession. According to the American Bar Association, Black attorneys make up about 5% of all attorneys in the United States. As Dean Ronald Weich noted in his opening remarks, the legal profession is only now addressing a long history of explicit discrimination. He praised the panel’s celebration of Black attorneys as a refreshing challenge to those who might prefer such conversations never take place.

Although the panel addressed current challenges facing the legal profession, it did not dwell on struggle or strife. Instead, panelists highlighted ways lawyers, students and community members can get involved. Several themes emerged throughout the evening, including resilience, mentorship and excellence, as panelists recounted their own struggles—and triumphs—in law school and the profession.

According to current student and [BLSA Office Position] Nija Daniels ’27, “We organized the Legacy & Law panel to celebrate those who have paved the way while creating meaningful dialogue about what legacy looks like for our generation of attorneys. Our goal was to inspire, connect and empower students to see themselves as future leaders in the legal profession. I left the event feeling a stronger sense of community among my peers and alumni.”

Panelists also spoke directly to undergraduate and law students seeking guidance on finding their place in the legal profession. During the question-and-answer session, several undergraduates asked for advice on entering the field. The evening concluded with a soul food reception, bringing everyone together to celebrate Seton Hall Law’s Black student community and its enduring impact on the legal profession.

 

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Neoshia R. Roemer is an Associate Professor of Law at Seton Hall University School of Law, where she teaches courses in contract law, family law, estate law, and federal Indian law. Professor Roemer's areas of interest include domestic violence, family-based rights, child welfare, poverty issues, and the Indian Child Welfare Act.