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Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession

Minority Caucus

Purpose and Functions

Provide a forum for the ABA House of Delegates minority members*

  1. meet and network with one another prior to the opening session
  2. discuss controversial or interesting reports and recommendations on the upcoming House agenda, often including inviting proponents and opponents to speak
  3. serve as a mentoring device for new minority House members

Hear presentations from announced candidates for ABA officer and Board positions

  1. become acquainted with or reinforce relationships with the organization's top leaders
  2. pose questions of candidates on their backgrounds and positions in a reasonably small setting

Invite minority members of the Board of Governors to address the group

  1. alert the Caucus members of key issues facing the ABA and Board
  2. offer an opportunity for input into the Board decision-making process

Learn about ABA presidential appointment opportunities and process

  1. invite President-elect or designee to attend and address the group
  2. help to inform other groups about potential appointment opportunities

Assist in developing a leadership pool for minorities in the ABA

  1. identify, encourage, and support minorities to apply for or run for leadership posts throughout the ABA
  2. provide a means of recruiting and mentoring candidates to ensure there is always a ready pool of talent

Work together to initiate, support, or oppose House resolutions in conjunction with others in the House of Delegates

  1. use the strength of the group to propose matters that are worthy of House action
  2. build coalitions with other House members to advocate for or against resolutions of interest to the Caucus

Participate in the House of Delegates orientation program for new members

  1. acquaint new members with the existence and purposes of the Minority Caucus
  2. establish a higher profile for Caucus activities within the House structure

* Minority members are defined as African Americans, Asian American, Hispanic Americans/Latinos, and Native Americans

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