As we make our way into 2021, we continue to face unprecedented challenges as a country and as a profession. These issues — a pandemic, global recession, the fight for racial justice — affect everyone in this country, but the impacts on women, and especially women of color, have proven particularly significant.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 140,000 jobs were lost in the month of December. A deeper look at these numbers reveals that 156,000 jobs were lost, and every single one of them by women. Meanwhile, men gained 16,000 jobs in the same month. This gender disparity is alarming and a dire reminder that we must create opportunities for our fellow women in law and in every sector outside of it.

Despite these hardships, there is reason to feel optimistic. Coronavirus vaccination is happening, and new infections, hospitalizations and deaths are declining significantly. Following the November election, we will have a record number of women and women of color serving in the U.S. Congress alongside our country’s first-ever female, African- and Asian-American vice president, Kamala Harris. The WBAI is excited to recognize and celebrate these advances, and we remain committed to providing resources, a strong network, leadership opportunities, legislative advocacy and educational resources to further this progress.

Finally, a note of thank you to our members, supporters, board members, committee chairs, and executive director for their dedication and great example. During these difficult and isolating times, our association pulled together, connected in new ways and continued to pursue the ideals of education, equality, leadership and community.

We look forward to continuing this tradition and working together to fulfill our mission to promote, foster, advance and protect the interests of all women and all women lawyers.