704 THE ADVOCATE
VOL. 79 PART 5 SEPTEMBER 2021
FACL BC also wishes to use this documentary to highlight and bring
renewed attention to the original “But I Was Wearing a Suit” documentary
about the racism that Indigenous lawyers and law students face within the
legal profession. That documentary is spearheaded by Indigenous legal
leaders including Justice Ardith (Walpetko We’dalx) Walkem, the first
Indigenous female judge of the B.C. Supreme Court, whose portrait graced
the cover of the July 2021 Advocate.
FACL BC believes that its companion documentary will not only identify
commonalities, but also highlight the unique and distinct experiences of
bias and discrimination that pan-Asian lawyers face in practice. Through
“But I Look Like a Lawyer”, FACL BC hopes to continue the important dialogue
of striving for change and recognizing and eliminating biases and discrimination
within the legal community.
MORE ABOUT FACL BC
FACL BC experienced unprecedented growth during the 2020/21 year. It
hosted 30 virtual events through the generous help and support of keynote
speakers, firm sponsors, general members, and dedicated volunteer board
and committee members. Some of its ongoing initiatives include hosting an
annual gala and conference with over 350 attendees, CPD seminars, a formal
mentorship program and a podcast featuring Asian Canadian lawyers.
Aside from professional development opportunities, FACL BC is an active
participant in consultations and policy making with government leaders,
institutions and other organizations that affect the wider legal community.
Recently, FACL BC called for greater diversity in the judiciary and applauded
the nomination of Justice Mahmud Jamal to the country’s highest court. At
the local level, FACL BC solicited statements from bencher candidates in the
Vancouver County election on the importance of equity and diversity. As
FACL BC approaches its second decade, it continues to build its work on these
important initiatives. Additionally, FACL BC aims to represent the pan-Asian
legal community throughout British Columbia and advocate for greater
equity, justice and opportunity for the pan-Asian community and beyond.
These efforts are not possible without the support of existing and new
members throughout British Columbia, who identify as both racialized and
non-racialized. Regardless of ethnic background, practice area or year of call,
all lawyers, students and supporters are encouraged to join FACL BC at
<faclbc.ca/join>. Every July, a new board of directors is elected at FACL BC’s
annual general meeting. New student and lawyer volunteers can also apply
to join our advocacy, membership, mentorship, in-house or gala committees
on a rolling basis. In addition, you are welcome to follow FACL BC on Facebook,
Instagram, LinkedIn, Spotify and Apple using the handle @faclbc.