Greetings,

Welcome to the National Bar Association Region IX’s (Region IX) website. Region IX is one of the largest and most geographically diverse of the twelve regions that compose the NBA, the country’s oldest and largest predominantly African-American bar association. Region IX is made up of more than a dozen local affiliates throughout the western United States. Its goals include combating attacks on affirmative action and the promotion of diversity; encouraging law firm and corporate diversity initiatives; advocating judicial appointments for African-American judges at all levels of the judiciary; and strengthening the links between affiliate organizations within the Region.

I am truly proud to serve as Region IX’s Regional Director for the 2008-2009 bar year. This year Region IX has the honor of hosting the National Bar Associations’ Annual Convention in San Diego, California August 1, 2009 – August 8, 2009. In order to make San Diego a Convention that NBA members will be talking about for years to come we will need every one to play a part, by paying their individual & chapter dues, sponsoring events and providing their advice and assistance when called upon. At the Convention, Region IX will host a convention suite for the purpose of convening, caucusing, and networking. The suite will also serve as the site of our Regional meetings. Hence, if you have not yet paid your dues this year, please do so today! You may download an application or pay on-line at www.nbaregionix.org.

In addition to assisting with the NBA Annual Convention, Region IX will hold its’ annual meeting in conjunction with the California Association of Black Lawyer’s (CABL) Annual Conference in Southern California, host two continuing legal education seminars, and organize the NBA Martin Luther King Drum Major for Justice High School Advocacy Regional Competition.

At the Annual Convention in Houston, TX President Moore unveiled his theme for year, "Unleashing The Power Of Our Legacy: The Time Is Now,"one sure fire way to unleash our legacies power is to ensure that the vote of each and every American in this historic and vital election year is counted. Therefore, Region IX will devote a significant amount of time and energy this year assisting with Election Protection throughout the Region and the nation. If you would like to assist in Election Protection, please e-mail your inquiry to rc8272@yahoo.com.

I look forward to working with everyone this year in endeavor to make this a very successful bar year, which will hopefully have a significant impact on future generations.

Peace and Blessings,

Rozenia D. Cummings
Regional Director