History of the Association
Origins and Founding (1997)
The idea for the Association took shape in 1997 when a group of Latino legal professionals recognized the need for an organization dedicated to supporting and advancing Latino representation in law. The Association was founded on April 16, 1997, marking a pivotal moment in the development of an institution that would champion Latino voices in the legal field.
The first organizational meeting was held with the meeting minutes recorded by Carmen Velasquez Peralta, Esq., who has since risen to become a Justice of the New York State Supreme Court. The discussions at this meeting set the foundation for an Association that would advocate for Latinos in the legal profession and provide a platform for career growth, mentorship, and community engagement in Queens County and beyond.
The Founding President of the Association was Salvador Cheda, Jr., Esq., whose leadership played a key role in establishing the organization’s vision and initial direction. After its formation, a Press Release was sent to the New York Law Journal announcing the establishment of the new Association.
Historical Documents: Minutes of the Organizational Meeting of April 16, 1997
Historic Documents: New York Law Journal press release announcing the formation of the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County
Building a Strong Membership and Community (1997)
Recognizing that a strong and engaged membership was essential to the organization’s success, the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County launched its first Membership Drive on September 11, 1997. The initiative encouraged Latino attorneys, judges, and law students to join, helping to build a dynamic network of legal professionals dedicated to advocacy, mentorship, and professional development.
Historical documents: The first membership drive advertisement of September 11, 1997
Shortly after the membership drive, an Installation Dinner was held on October 17, 1997. This event gathered key figures in the Latino legal community to formally inaugurate the leadership of the Association and reaffirm its commitment to uplifting and empowering Latino professionals in law. The dinner marked a significant milestone in solidifying the organization’s presence and fostering professional relationships among Latino legal professionals.
Historical documents: The invitation for the first installation dinner of October 17, 1997
The First Advisory Board (1998)
On August 31, 1998, the Association decided upon its first Advisory Board. This was followed by the official installation of the first Advisory Board on October 16, 1998, a crucial step in formalizing the organization’s governance and ensuring its long-term impact. The advisory board consisted of distinguished legal professionals committed to advancing the association’s mission and guiding its future initiatives.
Historical Documents: The August 31, 1998 announcement of the first Advisory Board
Commitment to the Latino Community (1998-Present)
Since its founding, the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County has remained committed to fostering opportunities for Latino legal professionals, advocating for policy changes, and addressing legal and social challenges that impact the Latino community. We have been very successful in achieving diversity in the judiciary bench seeing numerous members of our organization ascend to the bench.
The organization hosts annual events such as our Spring Mixer, Street Law en Espanol and Hispanic Heritage Breakfast. Our signature event is the Annual Gala Dinner Dance at Terrace on the Park which brings which brings together Honorees, judges, attorneys, and law students to celebrate achievements and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Get involved by attending events, becoming a member, and supporting initiatives that promote Latino leadership in law.
Looking to the Future
The Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County continues to grow and evolve, remaining steadfast in its mission to be a voice for Latinos in the legal profession. By expanding its reach and strengthening its programs, the association is committed to ensuring that Latino attorneys, judges, and law students have the resources, representation, and opportunities they deserve.
Membership is open to anyone who shares this vision and is passionate about making a difference in the legal field. Join today and be part of a community that is shaping the future of Latino leadership in law.
