WLAC
began as an independent organization in 1980, evolving from
a woman's committee of the Alameda County Bar Association.
As was the fashion at the time, we were loosely
"governed"
by a Steering Committee and reached decisions by consensus
until we found ourselves unable to obtain insurance for
an event because we had no President to sign for the organization.
Ellen Beilock recalls that we more or less drew straws and
she lost, so she was the first President; others recall
that her leadership qualities made her the obvious choice.
The first Judges' Dinner was in the YWCA on Webster
Street; we could smell the chlorine from the swimming pool.
The event was mobbed, women judges being quite the novelty.
There were only 150 women judges nationwide in
1979. This was in the early 80's, by which time Judge Mosbacher
had already retired and there were 5 women judges serving
in the county, Judges Patel and Deal having already been
elevated to the Federal District Court and Court of Appeal
respectively. Those 5 were Judges Taber, Collins, Girard,
Brosnahan and Sullivan. Since Judge Taber is currently retired
(but sitting on assignment), Judge Brosnahan is the senior
woman still sitting, having begun her service in 1979.
California Women Lawyers and most local women's bar
organizations were founded in the 1970s and early
1980s, when women were first entering the profession
in significant numbers, to support women generally and to
encourage then Governor Brown to appoint women to the bench,
which he did, changing the face of the California judiciary
forever. Over the years since then, the agenda has evolved
in a myriad of ways. The influence of the women's
bars in the judicial appointment process has gone through
a number of phases, but it is significant to note that the
current governor's appointments have included over 30% women,
although none yet in Alameda County.
Priscilla Camp, Former President WLAC
WLAC has provided leadership for the establishment of the Children's Waiting Rooms in Alameda County courthouses. It remains committed to mutual support among women lawyers and to encouraging the appointment of qualified women and supportive men to the bench at all levels. It is developing mentoring programs for young lawyers, and participating in Bay Area diversity programs with minority bar associations. Its Board of Directors is at maximum capacity of 15 for 2007 (plus Judicial Liaison). Members are encouraged to participate in leadership and on committees and new program ideas are always welcomed.
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