Written by: Alana Dixon
Y AG isn’t just an extracurricular club but rather a platform for the next group of diverse leaders who dare to make a change. Despite African Americans and Hispanics making up only 5-6% of lawyers in the country (American Bar Association, 2024) and those with disabilities only representing 3% of attorneys (National Association for Law Placement, 2023), programs like YAG allow us to change this narrative. The legal field has excluded many groups, and the impact is still felt today. The numbers speak for themselves. They show a significant diversity gap in legal fields, however, Y AG goes beyond the classroom experience and exposes students to the different roles in the legal field. Public speaking, mock trials, and more hands-on experience are key. It helps students become confident and prepared about law-related things. All are vital for a successful career.
In addition to the practical skills gained through mock trials and debates, YAG encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. Students do not just memorize legal principles and apply them in real-time scenarios. This active engagement fosters a deeper understanding of law and its impact on society.
YAG students learn to navigate the hardships of policy, law, and governance, preparing them for the challenges they will face as future leaders in the law profession no matter what they do. Many students involved in YAG are passionate about law but also see a lack of representation, pushing them harder. They enter YAG wanting to make a change and break an outdated history that has excluded them in hopes of being the person who changes what the next generation will see. Their commitment is a reminder that, while the current statistics might seem discouraging, the next generation can change that. Like the first black Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm said “If they don’t give you a seat at a table, bring a folding chair”.
