Minority Caucus

All voting members who self-identify as a minority can join the AAJ Minority Caucus, a networking group that focuses on membership, fundraising, education, and public service.

Membership
Attend a Membership Drive

Membership phone drives are a great way to make new connections in a relaxed environment. Increasing AAJ membership strengthens our collective voice. No prior experience is required. Join the Minority Caucus in Detroit on October 18.

Headshot of Minority Caucus Chair Chris Fitzgerald

Christopher H. Fitzgerald

Law Offices of Christopher H. Fitzgerald New York, NY
Chair, Minority Caucus President's Club Member PAC MCLUB Donor

"The AAJ family includes people from all walks of life and from every background. We believe that diversity in our organization makes us stronger and makes us better advocates for our clients. AAJ's commitment to the caucuses ensures that this organization reflects the diversity of those we represent."

2024-2025 Caucus Leadership

  • Chair: Christopher H. Fitzgerald | Law Offices of Christopher H. Fitzgerald | New York, NY

  • Chair-Elect: Bhavani Raveendran | Romanucci & Blandin, LLC | Chicago, IL

  • Treasurer: Christopher L. Johnson | Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel | Dallas, TX

  • Secretary: Carla D. Aikens | Carla D. Aikens, PC | Detroit, MI

  • Representatives to the AAJ Board of Governors:

    • Petra L. Aaron | GDH Law | Lanham, MD
    • Tyler D. Bailey | Bailey Law Firm, LLC | Columbia, SC
    • Ava Marie M. Cavaco | Nigh Goldenberg Raso & Vaughn, PLLC | Minneapolis, MN
    • Courtney L. Winston | Allen Allen Allen & Allen, PC | Richmond, VA
  • Immediate Past Chair & Representative to the AAJ Executive Committee: Javier L. Herrera | The Herrera Law Firm | San Antonio, TX

Camaraderie and Community
Get Involved Today

AAJ's Minority Caucus has more than a 1,500 active and engaged members.  The caucus hosts virtual and in-person events throughout the year, including community service projects and social events at convention, and supports AAJ through membership and fundraising drives.

Join the Caucus
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Caucus in Action
Supporting the Next Generation of Trial Lawyers

Named in honor of AAJ's past-President and first person of color to hold the position, the Minority Caucus's Richard D. Hailey Law Student Scholarship is a $5,000 award presented each summer during AAJ's Annual Convention to a minority Law Student member. The scholarship is awarded to a student who is committed to developing strong trial advocacy skills and representing those who have been injured by the negligence or misconduct of others. Congratulations to the 2024 scholarship recipient, Taylor Moorer, a JD candidate at George Washington University Law School.

Donate to the Scholarship FundLearn More about the Scholarship
Caucus Statement

AAJ’s Minority Caucus Executive Board released a statement in response to racial injustice and police brutality. Read the Statement

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Minority caucus members are engaged and active

Member Benefit

Minority Caucus Roundtables

Roundtable a case with your colleagues to gain insight and expertise.

Join a Committee

Get Involved!

Committees exist to enhance your membership and your practice, focusing on membership, fundraising, education, and public service.

Ask questions, get referrals

List Server

This active list server is an excellent resource for questions on experts, cases, and the law. It is also a source for potential referrals.

How do I join the Caucus?

The Minority Caucus is open to all AAJ members who have self-identified as a minority.  If you are interested in joining the caucus, please contact AAJ membership to update your member profile.    Contact AAJ Membership