“Black Histories and Futures Month holds deep meaning for Queen’s Law,” says Dean Colleen M. Flood. “We take pride in our Black law students and alumni, who have overcome systemic barriers to achieve extraordinary success as lawyers, judges, entrepreneurs, CEOs, academics, and leaders in their fields. Their achievements are a testament to their resilience, excellence, and the strength of diversity.  

“Queen’s Law remains committed to ensuring that an outstanding legal education is accessible to all. We recognize that diversity is essential to the future of the legal profession and to justice.”

In recognition of Black Histories and Futures Month, Queen’s Law will feature activities, stories, and displays throughout February, including:

• A profile on Julian Shivprasad, Law’26, BLSA-Queen’s Director of Finance and Fundraising and BLSA Canada’s National Treasurer. 
• A trip to Calgary for BLSA-Queen’s students to attend BLSA Canada’s National Conference, “Innovating Today, Impacting Tomorrow,” from Feb. 13–16. Kwame Skerritt-Williams, Law’26, BLSA-Queen’s Events Co-ordinator, will report on the event and capture photos. The conference, Canada’s largest gathering of Black law students, fosters networking, mentorship, and insight into the legal profession. 
• A profile on Wondwossen Firew, a former law dean, faculty member, and Legal Services Director at the University of Gondar who recently defended his PhD thesis successfully.
• A feature on the Cecil Allan Fraser Bursary, which commemorates the school's first Black graduate and provides financial support to Black Canadian and racialized JD students.
• A podcast series hosted by BLSA-Queen’s featuring Black leaders in the legal profession, including Justice Donald McLeod, Law’95, of the Ontario Court of Justice. Episodes will be available on BLSA-Queen’s Instagram. 
• A new Law Library display celebrating Black excellence, remembering Black histories, and showcasing the work of present-day activists. Featured works include biographies of notable Black Canadians and lawyers, legal texts of race and racism in Canada, and scholarly works on the Black Lives Matter movement.

Throughout February, Queen’s University and Kingston are hosting activities highlighting Black arts, culture, history, research, community, and more. Explore the events calendar.