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by Mei Tsang
Do You Remember the 21st Night of September?
September always feels like a clean slate: kids are back in class, vacations give way to renewed focus, and our profession enters the home stretch of the year with fresh energy. In our legal community, this is one of the busiest and most vibrant months—a time when we come together to celebrate and commit to the values that bind us.
Before I highlight individual events, I want to address the recent wave of immigration enforcement that has swept through our county, among other parts of the country. Here in Orange County, where one in three residents is an immigrant and more than half of our children have at least one immigrant parent, these enforcement efforts have brought on lots of fear, apprehension, and chaos. More than ever, our immigration laws are being tested. The OCBA has been working hard to ensure that we provide as many resources as we can. Our immigration section has been working hard with the Public Law Center, Community Legal Aid of SoCal, and other non-profits and our courts in bringing not just pro bono hours to the community, but also providing training to lawyers on various aspects that are affecting local immigrant populations and businesses. We have three training sessions planned so far. There now is a landing page of resources at ocbar.org.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15), we are reminded that our county and our people are resilient, and we will meet this change of momentum with shared values that knit our legal community together. We will honor the culture, history, and contributions of our Latino brothers and sisters by standing and celebrating with our immigrant communities.
On September 9, we start with the relaunch of the OCBA Bar Waiters Reception under the Law School Liaison Group headed by Lisa Ramirez and Nicole Whyte. We hold this reception for those who are waiting for the July bar exam results to gather at the OCBA for a chance to get to know our community, connect with colleagues, and kick off their legal careers in style.
On September 11, the OCBA Masters Division presents its annual Legends of the Law event. This cherished tradition honors two of our most respected and accomplished legends: Kate Corrigan and Richard (Dick) Millar. It’s a reminder of the long arc of legal service and the legacy that they are leaving.
Of course, September is also a time to support organizations that serve our broader community. On September 17, Community Legal Aid of SoCal (CLA) will host its annual Justice Served celebration. This 1970s themed event raises critical funds to support pro bono legal services. CLA provides essential access to justice, and Justice Served allows us all to support that mission in a meaningful way.
On September 18, the Orange County Asian American Bar Association (OCAABA) will host its annual beautiful Moon Festival, complete with mooncakes, music, and a sense of togetherness under the autumn sky.
On September 21, the Hispanic Bar Association (HBA)’s Annual Judges BBQ reminds us that legal leadership and cultural celebration go hand in hand, especially during times of uncertainty.
Along with our civic duties, on September 25, the Constitutional Rights Foundation of Orange County (CRF), will host its annual Gala. This event recognizes champions in the legal field while raising funds to empower the next generation of engaged, informed citizens.
As we look at the full calendar of events, I also want to take a moment to recognize that September is Suicide Prevention Month. This is a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and offer support to anyone who may be struggling. The pressures of legal practice, combined with life’s personal challenges, can take a heavy toll. If you or someone you know (maybe a teen or elderly person) is experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, please know that help is available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by dialing 988. From someone who has been personally affected by suicide recently, please spread the word. You are not alone. And let me say this to anyone who needs to hear it: Hang in there. Don’t think others are better off because you are gone. They will not be. The pain will never leave them. It is okay to take time off, but do not take off from life itself. Call 988. Call anyone. Call me.
So, as we step into September, I hope you’ll take a moment to reconnect with why you entered this profession in the first place. Join us at a reception, honor a legend, celebrate heritage, support civic learning, or take on a pro bono case for access to justice. Or just take a breather in a way that meets your needs. However you choose to engage this month, your presence matters.
Mei Tsang, wants to take a selfie with you if you see her at these events. And if you ever need to talk, she can be reached at mtsang@umbergzipser.com.