President ' s Message Atlanta : A Global Connector for
EMILY C . WARD Continuum Legal Group LLP eward @ continuumlg . com
A
People , Business , and Ideas
s a longtime Atlanta resident , I have had the privilege of witnessing the incredible diversity , innovation , global connections , and cultural power that make Atlanta a standout global city . However , my near obsession with Atlanta has matured as a business owner and lawyer because I ’ ve had a front-row seat to see , learn , and experience how Atlanta is more than just a thriving city in the Southeastern United States . It is also a global hub that attracts businesses , conventions , and visitors from across the world , and the great diversity of people in Atlanta enriches our cultural fabric and drives our economic growth . Perhaps most importantly , as President of the Atlanta Bar Association , I ’ ve come to understand how the Atlanta legal community – often led by members of the Atlanta Bar Association – has a national and global reputation of power and influence built upon the good works of the thousands of lawyers who have proudly called themselves members .
A Diverse Population and Economy Well Suited to Global Influence
Atlanta ’ s population is a microcosm of the world with ample statistics detailing an incredible variety of races , cultures , nationalities , and languages spoken by Atlanta ’ s residents . But this diversity is not just a statistic ; it is a living , breathing part of Atlanta ’ s identity , economy , and justice system .
The city is home to 31 Fortune 1000 companies , including multinational giants like The Coca-Cola Company , Delta Air Lines , UPS , and Mercedez-Benz USA . The fact that these corporate behemoths chose Atlanta as their home exemplifies Atlanta ’ s role as a gateway to the South , to America , and an integral part of the global economy .
Atlanta ’ s business landscape also thrives with support from over 70 foreign consulates , trade offices , and international chambers of commerce . Georgia ’ s elected representatives and Governor regularly make international visits to strategic markets to strengthen Georgia ’ s influence and connections throughout the world . These connections not only foster international diplomacy and global commerce , but solidify the importance of including a wide range of people in all aspects and echelons of Atlanta ’ s many businesses , sectors , and communities .
As an avid concert goer and sports fan , I know Atlanta ’ s cultural scene is a diverse and dynamic driver of Atlanta ’ s global powerhouse status . Each year , hundreds of international artists ensure their tours include an
4 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024