Our History

A Brief History of The Women Lawyers Association

In 1997 a group of women legal professionals in northwest Indiana gathered together at a restaurant in Merrillville, Indiana.  The women determined that there was still a need in the community for lawyers to unite to network, mentor and support the advancement of women lawyers and judges in the legal profession throughout northwest Indiana.
Although in the mid 1980s a Women Lawyers Association had existed in the area, it disbanded around 1990 due to lack of support.  It was discussed by the women lawyers and judges present at the meeting that the earlier organization faced gender barriers that were difficult to overcome.  The women lawyers who met thought that a forum was needed for women to record and remember the stories of earlier women lawyers in the community who fought to break gender barriers.  The group wanted to create a safe haven forum to continue the battle for women of all races and creeds to achieve equality in the legal profession.  They also wanted to build a networking, learning and mentoring environment to help all women succeed in leadership positions.  Hence, The Women Lawyers Association was reborn.

A Brief History about our Logo

Our logo was designed by Peter Brown, who is a graphic artist, music producer, singer, and songwriter - co-writing songs like "Material Girl" -  and one of our Past Presidents.  The logo was inspired by the Indiana State Flag with its torch.  The colors give a nod to femininity and allow the logo to stand out among the crowd.