On June 11th, the Women’s Bar Association of Maryland welcomed more than 200 attendees to Beyond Roe: Women, Law and Leadership in a Changing Landscape at the MSBA Legal Summit.
As we reflect on the program, what stands out most is not any single statistic, headline, or legal development, but the conversation.
The discussion touched on issues that are deeply personal to many and consequential for all of us as lawyers. We talked about the recent changes in the law, the realities women are facing, and the challenges that remain ahead. Those conversations were thoughtful, candid, and, at times, difficult.
We are grateful to JHU Vice President Alicia Wilson, MSBA President Natasha Dartigue, and WBA President Kristina Badalian for helping to frame that conversation. Many of us are still thinking of Natasha’s story of a bundle of sticks: one stick alone can be broken, but a bundle cannot. It was a simple reminder of something we know to be true. There is strength in professional community. There is strength is collective voices.
Alicia challenged us to think beyond the idea of allyship as a label. Support has value, but real change requires people who are willing to step into the work themselves. Her remarks were a powerful call to engagement and responsibility.
The most meaningful moments happened around the tables. Lawyers from every stage of their careers shared experiences, listened to one another, and found common ground. Those conversations reminded us why organizations like the WBA matter. They create a space for connection, mentorship, and honest dialogue when it is needed most.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, contributed to the discussion, and helped make this program a success.
We are pleased to share a few photos from the event below. We hope they capture some of the energy and camaraderie that made the lunch so special.
We look forward to continuing these conversations in the months ahead and, given the tremendous response, hope to bring a similar program back to the Legal Summit next year.
With gratitude,
The Women’s Bar Association of Maryland
