Canada’s black law students gear up for a celebration out west
By: Kerry-Ann Cornwall (National President) & Kendra Wilson (National Conference Chair)
Founded in 1991, BLSA Canada is a national student-run, non-profit organization that is dedicated to supporting and enhancing the academic and professional opportunities for Black law students. In so doing, we welcome allies from all backgrounds who seek to make a meaningful contribution to social justice initiatives. We aim to promote diversity and inclusion in Canadian law schools, and foster a more culturally-competent legal profession and representative legal community.
“BLSA Canada is about celebration, community-building, and support. The organization is growing and chapters across the country are leading change at their respective schools. I am grateful to be connected with this organization and the people that make it what it is.” – Kerry-Ann Cornwall, National President
Each year we host our annual conference, which celebrates the collaboration and achievements of Black lawyers, and law students across Canada.
“Being able to share a memorable moment and meet genuine people from all around Canada is an experience that I would always recommend to anyone who is part of the large family of BLSA. It is also a way for the francophone community to be extended throughout the country in order to be fully integrated and heard.” – Edynne Grand-Pierre, National Francophone Director
We encourage all Black law students, Black lawyers, Black pre-law students, employers, and allies to consider attending the BLSA Conference. This year’s conference will be held in Vancouver, BC from Thursday, February 17th, 2022 to Sunday, February 20th 2022. Vancouver is home to some of Canada’s most amazing scenery, boasting breathtaking mountains and ocean views. With the city’s mild climate, we look forward to enjoying the beautiful nature that Western Canada has to offer. We cannot wait to celebrate the achievements of our community in a city that has so much to offer!
“I’ve attended the BLSA Canada Conference for 3 years in a row (shoutout to combined 4-year programs!) and I’ve loved every single one of them. The ability to connect with Black law students across the country and network with Black lawyers throughout the profession is what I love the most! It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.” – Natasha Daley, National Chair
Our conference provides both current and prospective law students with the chance to connect with other legal professionals across the country. This event includes career panels, community conversations, and networking opportunities over a 3-day period. We hope to see you there!
“My first conference was in Quebec, prior to COVID. I had the time of my life. I am honoured to chair the upcoming 31st Annual Conference. The theme for our 31st conference is “In Excellence, We Stand; In Power, We Rise.” I am really looking forward to seeing you all. BLSA’s Annual Conference is a great way to connect with diverse individuals across the country, see yourself reflected, and experience both personal and professional developments. I encourage you to attend!” – Kendra Wilson, National Conference Chair
Seeing the resilience of the conference over the years has been amazing. I’ve been able to celebrate both in-person and virtually, and I can’t wait to see how we will continue the tradition this year! I met some of my closest connections at Conference, which have led to friendships and important professional opportunities, such as a working to improve the representation of Black francophone law students across Canada. Each year since, we have been able to see important improvements in our action areas, both within BLSA Canada and across french law schools. Can’t wait to be back and I can’t wait to welcome you all! – Keihgan Blackmore, National Francophone Representative
For more information, please contact this year’s National Conference Chair Kendra Wilson at conference@blsacanada.com. Please feel free to visit and follow us on social media:
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