Each semester the Law Center is blessed with a new group of law students who bring talent, hope, and inspiration to our work. Although the twin pandemics of COVID-19 and racial reckoning have impacted us both inside and outside the campus doors, our students’ commitment to serving others is as strong as ever. They continue to build skills, learn, and serve remotely via Zoom, cell phones, and other technology. Our workshops, advice clinics, and direct representation in consumer, workers’ rights, and immigration law matters continue. Law Center staff, students, and clients have graciously responded to this moment with patience and such perseverance; it is beautiful to see. Over the summer, as protests erupted throughout the country, the Law Center staff and the Advisory Board launched the Advancing Racial Justice Initiative. We are learning, examining ourselves, changing where needed, and actively participating in anti-racism efforts. To help us be accountable, we will periodically report on our progress, see below. The Law Center’s efforts are in support of the ongoing work of the Law School’s Equity Justice and Engagement Committee. Lastly, thank you for supporting our first ever-virtual Celebration. It was nice to pause, gather together, and CELEBRATE what’s GOOD. Giving thanks for the privilege of working to advance justice. Following is a recap of that special evening. Let me know if you’d like to learn more about our work or to get involved in some way. I’d love to hear from you. Be safe, be well, and be blessed. Deborah Moss West JD ’94
LAW CENTER’S VIRTUAL CELEBRATION – OCTOBER 1st What a wonderful evening! Thanks to you, the Law Center’s first-ever virtual Celebration — Community, Commitment & Courage — was a tremendous success. The evening featured a brief history of the Law Center and included 4 awards:
We heard a moving account of a brother and sister’s journey to US Citizenship; underlining why we do what we do. Click here to watch the Celebration video and hear more about each of our special honorees. If you are inspired by the Law Center’s work, it is not too late to make a gift to keep our programs strong. Your continued engagement makes our work possible! We appreciate you Celebrating with us, and thank you for being part of the Law Center’s efforts to educate, advocate, and serve.
ADVANCING RACIAL JUSTICE 2020 has been a challenging year, one marked by intense disruption and pain. From the human and economic effects of the global pandemic, to the continuing perverse stain of racism — whether we like it or not — our world has shifted into a new, hopefully temporary, normal. We are in the midst of a movement right now. People around the world are advocating for social justice in a variety of ways — donating, protesting, signing petitions, reading, listening, and voting. It’s important that this momentum continues, and that we do not lose sight of what we can do to drive the change needed for racial equity and social justice. Whether that be supporting the work of the Law Center or within our communities at large. Or both. In light of all the racial justice movements around the world, the Board wanted to take quick action. This summer we formed a new committee, Advancing Racial Justice, and organized several thoughtful, action oriented events in a very short period of time.
There is much to be done to eradicate racism and the Law Center is committed to the work. We encourage alumni who’d like to get involved to reach out. “I’m so very proud and continue to be amazed by the commitment of the Advisory Board and the dedication and work of the staff of the Law Center, who endeavor day in and day out to be the unwavering champion to those who are in need of pro bono services. Now, more than ever, we see how advancing racial justice is at the core of what we do.”
LAW CENTER VOLUNTEER –
“As a woman of color and an aspiring law student, events like the Advancing Racial Justice – Doing the Work panel are critical. Representation matters and seeing successful people of color is motivating and inspiring. One of my favorite parts of the event was hearing the stories of Terrance J. Evans. He talked about his experience in law school as an African-American and how hard he had to fight to keep his spot. Today Mr. Evans is a partner at a major law firm. Becoming a lawyer is a difficult, yet rewarding journey; but I know if they could do it, I can do it too. I am grateful for this invaluable up-close look at law school and the profession; I am even more determined to pursue a law degree.” Welcome Sara! WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Carlos Rosario is an experienced tech lawyer in both law firm and in-house arenas. Carlos’ practice is rooted in product counseling, and has covered technology transactions, intellectual property litigation and patent prosecution, product liability, privacy law (CIPP/US), start ups and financing, due diligence for M&A, healthcare, government relations, and employment and labor law. A South Bay area native, Carlos became a lawyer after his brother ran into trouble with the law. He is passionate about equity and access to technology, healthcare, and legal services for people regardless of identity and socio-economic status. Carlos attended Bellarmine College Preparatory and Santa Clara University — and feels a strong connection to Jesuit institutions guided by spirituality that seeks justice and encourages service. Carlos is currently President of the Santa Clara County Black Lawyers Association and has served on several non-profit boards, including Community Legal Services in East Palo Alto and Foothill Community Health Center (now Bay Area Community Health) – two exceptional organizations. During his time with both organizations, Carlos witnessed unfair treatment of low-income people trying to survive in an increasingly expensive area, where gentrification, homelessness, and separation of families are commonplace. “I am committed to helping underserved communities, especially in my hometown of San Jose. Joining the Advisory Board and working on efforts to decrease the justice gap is an extension of that commitment.” When not volunteering, Carlos enjoys being a high-tech lawyer in the emerging transportation space at a delivery drone company. He has two young children, ages 1 and 3. Welcome Carlos! YOUR VOLUNTEER AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT WILL HELP KGACLC:
Interested in volunteering or joining our Advisory Board? Contact Deborah Moss-West or Board Chair Delma Locke to learn more. We would like to hear from you. Wishing you well. We are all in this together. Give to the Alexander
Community Law Center Katharine & George Alexander Community Law Center Phone: (408) 288-7030 | Fax: (408) 288-3581 |
A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sara Valenzuela Watts
Carlos Rosario, JD ’11Thank you
Your feedback has been received.
