What People Are Saying About BECOMING BLACK LAWYERS
The film was a powerful snapshot into the struggles and triumphs of black law students across the country, and should serve as a call to action for both black students and all of those around them.
— Geoffrey Young, BLSA, University of Connecticut School of Law (Hartford, Connecticut)
The film connected our BLSA chapter.
— Autumn Brehon, BLSA, University of Houston Law Center (Houston, Texas)
This documentary really highlights the struggle of Black law students today in a way that makes us feel seen. This is a must-see!
— Kennedy Weathers, BLSA, University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law (Lexington, Kentucky)
This film is one that isn't just for black students. I think that [it is for] all non-black students, especially students who are not of color. This film helped opened my eyes to the magnitude of my importance as a black, first-generation law student. I knew it was important, but I didn't think to trace the importance all the way back to my ancestors. After watching this film, I know they're proud.
— Charron Varona, BLSA, LMU Loyola Law School (Los Angeles, California)
BECOMING BLACK LAWYERS is an impactful look into the almost universal experience of Black law students. It shows the reason why real progress in diversity and inclusivity is important. The film was insightful and sparked an interesting discussion about how the legal field can- and should- move forward.
— Janelle Thompson, BLSA, University of Cincinnati College of Law (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Great discussion starter! It made the BLSA members feel listened to and to feel less alone.
— Iasia Beh, BLSA, Pepperdine Law School (Malibu, California)
The film does a great job of allowing us to see ourselves in the future despite the challenges we face!
— Trinity Davis, BLSA, University of Akron School of Law (Akron, Ohio)
I loved everything about the film—from the stories shared to the way it was shot! My law school journey has been a trying three years and this film helped remind me why I keep pushing towards the end goal. I felt empowered and inspired by the film. Every aspiring Black lawyer should see it!
— Ashley Ferguson, BLSA, Mercer University School of Law (Macon, Georgia)
When watching the film I felt myself becoming angry listening to the different experiences. But, that anger I felt inside motivated me to fight even harder. Enough is enough.
— Katrina McCullough, BLSA, Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Law (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
The screening went really well! Many of the members found the film relatable and moving.
— BLSA, UCLA (Los Angeles, California)
We had a good turnout by our school's standards . . . [W]e engaged in a brief discussion afterward that yielded praise for the film, its message, and those who worked to bring this to reality. Everyone loved the film...literally everyone!
— BLSA, CUNY School of Law (New York, New York)
We watched the film first, then had a discussion. . . . You all gave so many more law students a reason to keep going.
— BLSA, Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Law (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
Becoming Black Lawyers presents a real picture of the struggles that Black students experience on a daily basis. The film ends on a note of positivity, perseverance and the strength of community. As Black attorneys, we can and will make a difference. Not because of our experiences, but in spite of them.
— Kaila Taylor, BLSA, Capital University Law School (Columbus, Ohio)
The screening was amazing!! So relatable and inspiring. I hope more of our student body will have an opportunity to view the film in the future.
— Success Carter, California Western School of Law (San Diego, California)
It was amazing!! We even had two undergraduate students attend who are interested in law school. They loved the film! We all did. The film sparked some meaningful conversations and it was nice to see that we are not the only ones with these experiences in law school. Also, the film was very encouraging and a great reminder of where we came from and what we can do as black people. . . . This film is a must-see!"
— Sidnee McDonald, BLSA, Penn State Law (University Park, Pennsylvania)
The screening went very well. . . . A common theme of responses was just how relatable their perspectives and experiences were to our own. Overall, the feedback I received on the film was positive.
— Robert Johnson, BLSA, University of Chicago Law School (Chicago, Illinois)
The reminder of our struggle in law school in conjunction with the affirmation that we are not alone in our journeys really made the film impactful for our student body.
— Angelica Hutchins, BLSA, Marquette University Law School
I think this film highlights what we as black law students already know, but it has the power to incite discussion and open the eyes of those who can make an actual change to just how universal these issues truly are.
— Malcolm Hines, BLSA, Duquesne University
I didn't realize how much I NEEDED to see this film! It left me reenergized and reminded me that I'm not alone in this journey! It inspired, empowered, motivated me to keep pushing!
— LaDara Lee, BLSA, Miles Law School
Becoming Black Lawyers is both an acknowledgment of the painful realities of being Black and entering the field, as well as the spark needed to motivate Black law students to pursue social and racial justice no matter the challenges we face or the field of law we choose to practice.
— Lauren Rolfe, BLSA, Florida State University College of Law
Becoming Black Lawyers shined a light on the reality that the law school environment isn't made for people of color, but we must navigate through to have the tools we want to effect change in our community and the world around us.
— Erickson Saye, BLSA, Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Every Black Law Student should watch this film!
— Derin Adesanha, BLSA, South Texas College of Law Houston
This was a great film that resonated deeply with our members and spurred interesting discussions.
— Desiree Jones, BLSA, University of Texas School of Law
This film is a great vehicle to facilitate an important discussion towards the implicit burdens that many black attorneys and law students carry though our day to day lives.
— John Wilson IV, BLSA, Washington University School of Law
This film touched me in a deep place and left me more determined than ever to get that JD.
— Terry Cato, BLSA, Golden Gate University School of Law
A MUCH needed film! Unlike the rest! A must-see!
— Jasmine McMillion, Law Student, Black Law Students Association, Florida A&M University College of Law
For students attending PWIs, this is the kind of film that can get the conversations started. I wish all members of the student body would have watched it.
— Victor Sikeley, President, Black Law Students Association, University of St. Thomas School of Law
This film spoke directly to the black experience in the primarily white law school environment. It made us realize that we are not alone.
— Princeton Wilson, President, Black Law Students Association, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law (Arizona State University)
Uplifting. Inspiring. A must-see for all future Black lawyers.
— Juanita E. Joyner, M.S., Aspiring Lawyer, CUNY York College and New York University Graduate (New York, New York)
The battles within law school to become a black attorney for me aren’t seen unless we get behind the scenes and watching this film was truly what I needed to help affirm my why. The film tore back the page and revealed that yes, the journey can and will be hard, but it’s not unattainable! The attorneys were raw and uncut about their experiences and courageous in their efforts. I admire their gusto and I look forward to my journey to join them in my own esquire seat in the near future. Thank you all for your dedication to black law! You are rock stars.
— Sandrian Campbell, M.B.A., Future Attorney, Berkeley College and Walden University Graduate
I believe this film is critical for ALL black and brown children as young as elementary level. It allows them to see that contrary to what the world would have them believe, they can do ANYTHING but the fight is still just as intense as that of our ancestors. They need to be prepared to fight!
— Brandy Johnson, Law Student, Mitchell Hamline School of Law (St. Paul, Minnesota)
Are you a Black, first-generation student interested in the law? Are you often alone and confused about your journey into the legal space? Are you just a documentary buff? Then, as per Law Professor Tanya Washington, this film begs the question: 'Isn't this what you prayed for?' And it very much so is. Prepare to cry, sans complaining, and be motivated!
— Yolanda V. Aguilera, Aspiring Attorney, Rutgers University Graduate (Newark, New Jersey)
This film was so impactful. I believe that every aspiring Black lawyer needs to watch this. It offers such a realistic perspective of law school and gives great advice.
— Iyanla Kollock, Aspiring Lawyer, Rutgers University Graduate (New Brunswick, New Jersey)
This film is pivotal for future Black lawyers in today's climate. It provides a diverse snapshot of the experience of Black law students learning in this hypercompetitive environment. If you are considering law school this is a powerful, eye-opening, and must-see documentary.
— Kristina Krozak, Aspiring Lawyer, University of Maryland Graduate (Silver Spring, Maryland)
This film is an honest account of the grit and determination necessary when becoming a black lawyer.
— Stacie L. Dukes, Law Student, Southern University Law Center (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
If you are a Black person pursuing the law, press play on this film whenever you need a reminder of the village that surrounds you.
— Reneé Ingram, MLS, Aspiring Lawyer
This film edifies and encourages aspiring lawyers that becoming a black lawyer is not by chance but by design. You must see it.” Stacy Burnett, Aspiring Black Lawyer "This film can be the strength of one’s motivation to remain steadfast in their commitment to pursue legal education.
— Tyler L. Brumfield, Aspiring Black Lawyer, University of Missouri Graduate (Chicago, Illinois)
The film is necessary to the conversation on inclusion based on race and gender and the future of aspiring Black lawyers.
— Donelle Simmons, Aspiring Lawyer, Fayetteville State University Graduate (Fayetteville, North Carolina)
This film was invaluable. As prospective Black lawyers, we simply cannot get enough reminders that say 'Hey, this is possible.’
— Jasmine Thomas, Aspiring Lawyer, North Carolina A&T University Graduate (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
Becoming Black Lawyers is the film that every aspiring Black lawyer needs to see! The wisdom gained from others' experiences are the tools that will help propel you forward in your career.
— Kinya K. Gramblin, Law Student, University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law (Concord, New Hampshire)
This film provides the necessary and often unacknowledged experiences of being a Black law student and a Black Lawyer. It is a national call to action that we MUST change the fact that only 5% of lawyers and 8% of law students are Black.
— Jalyn Radziminski, Aspiring Lawyer, Emory University Graduate (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
The film Becoming Black Lawyers is a must-see for all aspiring Black lawyers!
— Tyra Sherese Peterson, M.A., Aspiring Lawyer, Michigan State University and Margrave College Graduate (Chicago, Illinois)
Becoming Black Lawyers presents a real picture of the struggles that Black students experience on a daily basis. The film ends on a note of positivity, perseverance and the strength of community. As Black attorneys we can and will make a difference. Not because of our experiences, but in spite of them.
— Kaila Taylor, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Capital University Law School (Columbus, Ohio)
Becoming Black Lawyers is both an acknowledgment of the painful realities of being Black and entering the field, as well as the spark needed to motivate Black law students to pursue social and racial justice no matter the challenges we face or the field of law we choose to practice.
— Lauren Rolfe, President, The Delores Poindexter Auzenne Chapter of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) (2021-2022), Florida State University College of Law (Tallahassee, Florida)
I didn't realize how much I NEEDED to see this film! It left me reenergized and reminded me that I'm not alone in this journey! It inspired, empowered, motivated me to keep pushing!
— LaDara Lee, Member, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Miles Law School (Birmingham, Alabama)
I think this film highlights what we as black law students already know, but it has the power to incite discussion and open the eyes of those who can make an actual change to just how universal these issues truly are.
— Malcolm Hines, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Duquesne University School of Law (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
The film was a powerful snapshot into the struggles and triumphs of black law students across the country, and should serve as a call to action for both black students and all of those around them.
— Geoffrey Young, Member, Black Law Students Association, University of Connecticut School of Law (Hartford, Connecticut)
The film connected our BLSA chapter.
— Autumn Brehon, Vice President - External Affairs, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), University of Houston Law Center (Houston, Texas)
The reminder of our struggle in law school in conjunction with the affirmation that we are not alone in our journeys really made the film impactful for our student body.
— Angelica Hutchins, Vice President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Marquette University Law School (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
This film is a must-see!
— Sidnee McDonald, M.P.A., President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Penn State Law (University Park, Pennsylvania)
This documentary really highlights the struggle of Black law students today in a way that makes us feel seen. This is a must-see!
— Kennedy Weathers, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law (Lexington, Kentucky)
This film is one that isn't just for black students. I think that [it is for] all non-black students, especially students who are not of color. This film helped open my eyes to the magnitude of my importance as a black, first-generation law student. I knew it was important, but I didn't think to trace the importance all the way back to my ancestors. After watching this film, I know they're proud.
— Charron Varona, Graduation Chair, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Loyola Marymount University Loyola Law School (Los Angeles, California)
Becoming Black Lawyers is an impactful look into the almost universal experience of Black law students. It shows the reason why real progress in diversity and inclusivity is important. The film was insightful and sparked an interesting discussion about how the legal field can - and should - move forward.
— Janelle Thompson, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), University of Cincinnati College of Law (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Great discussion starter! It made the BLSA members feel listened to and to feel less alone.
— Iasia Beh, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Pepperdine University Rick J. Caruso School of Law (Malibu, California)
The film does a great job of allowing us to see ourselves in the future despite the challenges we face!
— Trinity Davis, Member, Black Law Students Association, University of Akron School of Law (Akron, Ohio)
I loved everything about the film—from the stories shared to the way it was shot! My law school journey has been a trying three years and this film helped remind me why I keep pushing towards the end goal. I felt empowered and inspired by the film. Every aspiring Black lawyer should see it!
— Ashley Ferguson, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Mercer University School of Law (Macon, Georgia)
A MUCH needed film! Unlike the rest! A must see!
— Jasmine McMillion, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Florida A&M University College of Law (Orlando, Florida)
For students attending PWIs, this is the kind of film that can get the conversations started. I wish all members of the student body would have watched it.
— Victor Sikeley, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), University of St. Thomas School of Law (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
This film touched me in a deep place and left me more determined than ever to get that JD.
— Terry Cato, Member, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Golden Gate University School of Law (San Francisco, California)
This film spoke directly to the black experience in the primarily white law school environment. It made us realize that we are not alone.
— Princeton Wilson, President, John P. Morris Black Law Students Association (BLSA) (2021-2022), Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Arizona State University (Phoenix, Arizona)
This film is a great vehicle to facilitate an important discussion towards the implicit burdens that many black attorneys and law students carry though our day to day lives.
— John Wilson IV, President, Black Law Students Association (2021-2022), Washington University School of Law (Saint Louis, Missouri)
This was a great film that resonated deeply with our members and spurred interesting discussions.
— Desiree Jones, President, Thurgood Marshall Legal Society (TMLS) (2021-2022), University of Texas School of Law (Austin, Texas)
Every Black Law Student should watch this film!
— Derin Adesanha, President, Black Law Students Association (2022-2023), South Texas College of Law Houston (Houston, Texas)
Becoming a black lawyer shined a light on the reality that the law school environment isn't made for people of color, but we must navigate through to have the tools we want to effect change in our community and the world around us.
— Erickson Saye, J.D./M.P.P. Candidate, Member, Black Law Students Association, Loyola University Chicago School of Law (Chicago, Illinois)
When watching the film I felt myself becoming angry listening to the different experiences. But, that anger I felt inside motivated me to fight even harder. Enough is enough.
— Katrina McCullough, Vice President, Black Law Students Association, Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Law (Hato Rey, San Juan, Puerto Rico)
Becoming Black Lawyers is a must watch film for faculty and staff at law schools. The powerful insights and heartbreaking experiences shared in the film advanced my thinking on inclusion in and out of the classroom. My teaching, advising, and support for Black students is changed for the better by watching the film.
— Jeffrey Dodge, Associate Dean, Penn State Dickinson Law (Carlisle, Pennsylvania)
