Introduction

The Law Society has hosted Annual Conferences across the United States over the years, from Seattle to San Diego, D.C. to Philadelphia, Kansas City to Dallas, and beyond. Planning for Annual Conferences is led by local chapter leaders in the area where the conference is hosted that year.

Student Reflections

Attending the J. Reuben Clark Law Society Annual Conference in Atlanta was a powerful experience for the fellows, providing opportunities to engage with legal professionals, scholars, and advocates committed to justice. Jane Sandberg highlighted the impact of presenting on a fellowship panel, sharing action plans for campus events, and learning from leaders like Martin Luther King III and Retired Judge Bernice Bouie Donald. The conference deepened her commitment to addressing racism, discrimination, and injustice while drawing inspiration from the civil rights movement.

Fahina Lauti reflected on the conference’s focus on understanding the struggles faced by the Black community in both society and religious institutions. Sessions on incarceration, family impacts, and community inclusivity prompted critical reflection on systemic issues and personal biases. She emphasized the importance of empathy, restorative justice, and advocacy while acknowledging the need to continually educate oneself. Both reflections underscored how the conference strengthened participants’ dedication to fostering equity, amplifying marginalized voices, and applying these lessons in meaningful, practical ways.

Student Highlights

The JRCLS Annual Conference, themed “Who is My Neighbor,” focused on how lawyers can address racial injustice, civil rights, and societal divides. Annette Jarvis encouraged attendees to work empathetically to combat discrimination, while William P. Mumma received the Thomas L. Kane Freedom Award for defending religious liberty through the Becket Fund. Elder Matthew Holland highlighted the Good Samaritan story, emphasizing charity, collaboration, and humanitarian efforts with the NAACP in Ghana and Memphis.

Keynotes from Ryan Buchanan and Martin Luther King III reinforced the importance of identifying neighbors in need, fostering justice, and promoting altruism. Breakout sessions explored religious liberty in the courts, incarceration, systemic racism, LGBTQ+ rights, and access to justice. Speakers emphasized dialogue, understanding diverse perspectives, and the responsibility of lawyers to confront inequities and advocate for change.

Afternoon and evening sessions addressed diversity in legal education, historical memory, and peacebuilding. Chief Justice Hassan Jallow spoke on African values and Ubuntu, while Judge Bernice Donald and Jim Ferrell encouraged recognizing humanity, engaging in difficult conversations, and bridging societal divides. Overall, the conference highlighted the role of lawyers as catalysts for justice, empathy, and community building.