Posted on February 14, 2022, Updated February 3, 2025
February is Black History Month—a time to celebrate the extraordinary contributions Black individuals have made to our communities, including the legal profession. It’s also a time to reflect on the systemic barriers Black people continue to face, both within the justice system and in society more broadly.
The Law Society’s Practice, Ethics, and Equity Advisor, Noelia Bernardo is here to support not only lawyers but also legal staff and clients who may encounter discrimination or inequities in legal settings. Whether you’re a Black lawyer, legal staff member, client, or anyone who feels they have experienced discrimination, please don’t hesitate to connect for guidance, resources, and a space where your concerns will be heard. Contact Noelia at 204-926-2019 or nbernardo@lawsociety.mb.ca.
My goal is to help ensure that the legal profession becomes a more inclusive and equitable space for everyone. Stepping into this role has reminded me how critical it is to listen and learn from the lived experiences of others—especially those who have faced systemic challenges. This month, I encourage all of us to think about how we can foster meaningful change—whether it’s through participating in CPD programs, attending community events, or creating space for important conversations about equity and inclusion. Together, we can build a legal profession that reflects and supports the diverse communities we serve.
– Noelia Bernardo, Practice, Ethics and Equity Advisor
2025 Events
On Monday, February 3, the Manitoba Chapter of The Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL-MB) in partnership with the Manitoba Bar Association is hosting the Second Annual Sankofa Lecture. Join our Black Legal Community for this exciting event with special guest lecturer Dr. Adelle Blackett, McGill University Faculty of Law, Canada Research Chair in Transnational Labour Law. See details for this event and additional resources below to learn more about the history, contributions and experiences of Black people on the Prairies and in Canada – within and outside of the legal profession.
2nd Annual Sankofa Lecture in Honour of Black History Month
Looking Back to Move Forward:
Why History Matters in the Quest to Achieve and Sustain Employment Equity for People of African Descent in Canada
Monday, February 3, 2025 | 2 pm –4 pm (CST)
2nd Annual Sankofa Lecture in Honour of Black History Month Monday, February 3, 2025 | 2 pm –4 pm (CST)
Black History Manitoba’s website for a list of events to celebrate Black History month
