By: Tracey L. Schroeder
The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI) was proud to participate in the Illinois State Bar Association’s (ISBA’s) 13th Annual Minority Bar CLE Conference, held March 26–27 in Chicago. The conference brought together members of the legal community for thoughtful discussion, professional development, and meaningful connection around some of today’s most pressing legal issues.
Programming throughout the conference addressed a wide range of timely topics, including the intersection of immigration law with other practice areas, the legal implications surrounding F-1 visa revocations, and the moral and psychological challenges attorneys face in an evolving legal landscape. Additional discussions focused on how bar associations are supporting their members and how Illinois judges are maintaining professionalism and ethical standards in increasingly technology-driven courtrooms.
The WBAI was honored to collaborate with the Cook County Bar Association to host a CLE panel titled “Current Climate of the Judiciary.” The program explored how judges are navigating modern challenges, including increased public scrutiny, legislative changes, and advancements in courtroom technology. WBAI Director Leilani Ana Maria Pino served as moderator, guiding a thoughtful and engaging discussion. The WBAI is also proud to recognize Past President Whitney K. Siehl for her role as a moderator on another panel during the conference.
As part of the conference’s continued programming, the WBAI partnered with the Asian American Bar Association, the Cook County Bar Association, and the LGBTQ+ Bar Association of Chicago to present a CLE titled “Addressing Emerging Needs of Self-Represented Litigants in Illinois.” This program highlighted the unique challenges many court users have faced over the past year, including financial instability, barriers to accessing legal services, and concerns about appearing in court. The panel also emphasized the important strides Illinois has made in developing resources and support systems to better meet individuals where they are—both inside and outside the courtroom.
The WBAI extends its sincere thanks to the ISBA and all participating bar associations for hosting an engaging and impactful conference. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and advancing access to justice for all.
This article was originally published in the WBAI Spring 2026 Newsletter on page 58.