Myra Bradwell had a dream of becoming a lawyer, but was repeatedly rejected based on gender. Her determination, courage, and perseverance – both her attempt at gaining entrance to the Illinois bar and her dedication to women’s rights – has made her one of the most influential figures of the American legal profession. Join us in DeKalb on Friday, March 21^st as Jenner & Block attorney, Rachel Morse, offers a dramatic rendition of Myra Bradwell’s struggle to gain admittance to the bar. Using excerpts of actual court records and other historical documents, Ms. Morse brings Bradwell’s trailblazing story to life. The presentation closes with a distinguished panel of speakers discussing the obstacles women have faced pursuing careers in the law, how those obstacles were overcome, and what the future holds for diversity in the law. You are invited to attend a reception celebrating ourselves and honoring those who went before us immediately following the panel discussion. Attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Myra Bradwell: In the Light of Experience (prepared by John Lupton, Illinois Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission Historian), which contains copies of contemporaneous documents and an account of Myra Bradwell’s life.

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The program is presented by the ISBA Standing Committee on Racial and Ethnic Minorities and the Law, the ISBA Standing Committee on Women and the Law, and Northern Illinois University College of Law. It qualifies for 2.0 hours MCLE credit, including 2.0 hours approved Professional Responsibility MCLE credit.