Reconnecting With Your Communities

As the pandemic put a pause on in-person gatherings, many lawyers were affected by a drastic shift in the way they do business and connect with those around them. The pandemic highlighted that the legal industry is an inherently social industry, which is why the pause on in-person gatherings was an inconvenient experience for lawyers who enjoy the business side of a multifaceted profession. After two years in the COVID-19 chapter of our lives, the pause has been lifted.

I recently received the opportunity to reconnect in person with two legal communities that are deeply important to me: Fordham OUTLaws and the Fordham Latin American Law Students Association ("LALSA"). Fordham OUTLaws hosted an alumni dinner at Storico at the New-York Historical Society on the Upper West Side, and LALSA hosted their dinner at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. Both organizations honored people who have made a genuine impact in their respective communities. Under a backdrop of savory food and refreshing cocktails, everyone felt reintegrated into an atmosphere that merged contributions to the law with diversity.

As an attorney with a multifaceted identity, I've come to realize the importance of showing up for your communities when the opportunities arise. By being fully immersed in the happenings of the communities that touch our unique identities, we become better lawyers and people who are in the service of others.