President’s Perspective

For over a century, the Cook County Bar Association (CCBA) has stood at the forefront of advancing the civil, political, and economic rights of Black communities and its members. Born out of exclusion from local bar associations, a bold group of Black attorneys founded the CCBA on December 18, 1914, and held meetings at the Wabash YMCA on 38th Street in Chicago. From defending Black residents during the 1919 Chicago race riots, hosting legal clinics and community forums, supporting national civil rights organizations, and creating fair and impartial evaluations of judicial candidates, our legacy has been one of courageous advocacy and service. That is why the theme for the upcoming bar year, Rooted in Legacy. Rising in Power, resonates deeply. It honors our past, energizes our future, and reflects our enduring commitment to justice, unity, and progress.

It is with great humility and a profound sense of purpose that I step into the role as the 111th President of this historic organization. I stand on the shoulders of the fearless leaders who came before me—leaders who guided the CCBA with tremendous vision, integrity, and resolve. Throughout my career in public service, I have remained grounded in the belief that “to whom much is given, much will be required.” My leadership experience extends throughout the CCBA, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Illinois State Bar Association, National Bar Association, American Bar Association, NAACP, Advisory Council for the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, and other local organizations in the city of Chicago. As a catalyst for justice, I believe in sowing seeds of hope, trusting they will cultivate meaningful growth amongst our peers and within our communities. 

This year, my priorities include:

• Cultivating meaningful relationships with community stakeholders;

• Increasing access to justice;

• Strengthening the pipeline of success for the next generation of lawyers; and

• Providing quality professional development resources for our members. 

Thank you for visiting our website and your continued investment in CCBA’s mission. Your presence and partnership are vital as we expand our impact in communities that need us most.

Our community is counting on us.

In progress and unity,

Antonio C. Lee

111th President

Cook County Bar Association