Law Firms Host Second Annual West Michigan Black Legal Summit
Grand Rapids, Michigan, August 13, 2025 – Buoyed by strong community interest and support, the Second annual West Michigan Black Legal Summit will be held in Grand Rapids on Thursday, Sept. 18.
Area law firms are again joining together to host the half-day summit, which is open to lawyers, judges, law students and legal professionals. The summit will feature educational sessions and networking opportunities. Sessions will focus on practice development, racial justice, equity and more. Media are welcome to attend.
Marc Lamont Hill, a scholar, journalist and social advocate, will serve as the keynote speaker with his presentation “Unapologetically Powerful.” Hill will explore themes at the intersection of race, politics, education and global human rights, offering powerful insights drawn from both scholarship and lived experience. Widely recognized for his incisive commentary, Hill brings a multidisciplinary perspective shaped by his work in academia, media and global human rights.
“After an overwhelming response to last year’s summit, we’re delighted to again offer an opportunity for the Black legal community in West Michigan to come together, connect and reflect in a meaningful way,” said Mandice McAllister, talent development manager for Warner Norcross + Judd LLP and a member of the summit planning committee. “Last year’s gathering was inspiring for the depth and breadth of the dialogue, networking and engagement. We’re building on that positively as we plan to enhance the 2025 gathering.
“We’re particularly delighted to welcome Marc Lamont Hill to West Michigan. Known for his ability to challenge assumptions and inspire critical dialogue, Hill’s remarks will invite audiences to reflect deeply, think expansively and consider actionable paths toward equity and meaningful change.”
Advance registration is required. Participants can register online.
The summit will be hosted by Warner Norcross + Judd LLP from noon-6 p.m., 150 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 1500 in Grand Rapids. The event, which is open to all who have a commitment to ensuring a diverse legal community in West Michigan, was planned by a committee of four legal professionals from private practice, the courts and state government.
Five law firms are co-sponsoring this event: Dickinson Wright, Foster Swift, Miller Johnson, Varnum and Warner.
Other sessions will include a panel discussion on how to build a successful and sustainable legal career in today’s evolving profession, a presentation on the intersection of Black liberation and the law, a guided discussion on practicing accountable solidarity and an interactive dialogue on practical ways to foster a more inclusive legal ecosystem in West Michigan.
More information is available on Warner’s website.
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