Atlanta stop because of Atlanta’ s diverse audience and accessibility as a destination for music lovers( thanks in large part to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport). Atlanta’ s growing status as an international destination will be on full display this summer when Atlanta hosts multiple FIFA World Cup matches – Go Team USA! Additionally, one of Atlanta’ s long-time cultural icons, the 27-time Grammy winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, led by the internationally renowned French conductor, Nathalie Stutzmann, exemplifies the city’ s global artistic reach.
The Legal Community’ s Role in Atlanta’ s Global Identity and Continued Success
As lawyers and members of the Atlanta Bar Association, we have a unique role to play in supporting and shaping Atlanta’ s global identity and success. Our city’ s legal community is deeply connected to its business and cultural ecosystems, providing the expertise and advocacy needed to negotiate multinational business deals, represent foreign corporations in Atlanta’ s courts, navigate immigration issues for brilliant scientists, handle the employment paperwork for hundreds of construction workers involved in Atlanta’ s next big infrastructure project, and so much more. By fostering relationships with global clients and partners and intentionally including a wide variety of local people and businesses in our business and social plans, we each can contribute to Atlanta’ s reputation as a city that welcomes and supports international businesses and residents.
We also have a role to play in ensuring all Atlantans, including new immigrants and refugees, can access the justice system. Sometimes the barrier to the justice system may be linguistic( e. g., Gwinnett County reported needing court interpreters in 42 different languages in a single year). But, at other times costs, cultural differences, and the fear of reprisals keeps immigrants and refugees from getting the help they need. With many national policies on immigration changing, it is critical we, as lawyers, paralegals, judges, and advocates, pay attention and find ways to support and protect the rights of these Atlanta residents. Whether we provide pro bono work or financially support community partners like the Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network and Kids in Need of Defense, each of us can help ensure that Atlanta’ s legal resources are accessible to all and further secure our city’ s legacy as a place of opportunity and inclusion.
International Pride
Atlanta’ s status as a global hub for international business and people is a source of pride for all who call this city home. Our diversity, connectivity, innovation, and commitment to each other makes Atlanta a place where cultures converge, businesses thrive, and countless communities flourish. As we look to Atlanta’ s future as a burgeoning global powerhouse, let us continue to build these strengths and foster a city that remains a
With sincere appreciation,
Emily C. Ward President, Atlanta Bar Association www. atlantabar. org THE ATLANTA LAWYER 5