The Origins of Lone Star Legal Aid

The Origins of Lone Star Legal Aid: 75 Years of Meeting Human and Legal Needs

Join us for a special in-person event, in partnership with Thurgood Marshall School of Law, celebrating the incredible journey of Lone Star Legal Aid! We are thrilled to mark 75 years of tirelessly serving the community's human and legal needs.

Date: Friday, November 3, 2023, 10 AM - 4 PM

Location: Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Cleburne Street, Houston, TX, USA

AGENDA

9:45 AM

Light Refreshments

10:00 - 10:15 AM

Introduction and Overview

Lydia Clay-Jackson will introduce the agenda and give an overview of Lone Star Legal Aid's significant journey in meeting human and legal needs over the past 75 years.

10:15 - 10:45 AM

The Strange Career of Sweatt v. Painter, The Early Days

Distinguished Professor James M. Douglas will delve into the intriguing history of Sweatt v. Painter, offering insights into the early days of Lone Star Legal Aid.

*** 15-Minute Break ***

11:00 - 11:30 AM

The Gulf Coast Years

Bob Sohns and Daniel Hu will share their experiences, exploring the challenges and triumphs faced during Lone Star Legal Aid's Gulf Coast years.

11:30 AM - 12:45 PM

Keynote Lunch - The Lone Star Legal Aid Era: State Planning, The Rise of Disasters, and Growth

Enjoy your lunch while listening to our keynote speaker, Paul Furrh, as he reflects on the Lone Star Legal Aid era, focusing on state planning, LSLA’s response to natural disasters like Rita, Ike, Harvey, and more, and the organization's remarkable growth.

*** 15-Minute Break * **

1:00 - 1:30 PM

Impact Work

Brenda Willett will showcase the impact work done by Lone Star Legal Aid, highlighting its contributions to the community.

1:30 - 2:15 PM

Discrimination (Fair Housing and Voting Rights)

Mike Daniel, Betsy Julian, Laura Beshara, and Debra Wray will engage in a conversation about landmark discrimination cases in fair housing and voting rights, shedding light on the challenges faced and progress made in these areas. will engage in a conversation about landmark discrimination cases in fair housing and voting rights, shedding light on the challenges faced and progress made in these areas.

*** 15-Minute Break * **

2:30 - 3:00PM

Education

Jane Swanson will discuss landmark cases, such as Doe v. Plyler and In re: Alien Children, providing valuable insights into education-related legal battles, including Byrd v. Livingston ISD.

3:00 - 3:30 PM

The Heart of Law: Recent Client Cases from Hardship to Justice

Sit back and enjoy a visual journey through the last decade of Lone Star Legal Aid's significant achievements, challenges, and memorable moments.

*** 15-Minut e Break ***

3:45 - 4:00 PM

Awards Ceremony

Join Ernest Brown to recognize the exceptional achievements of individuals to be inducted into the Hall of Honor, concluding the event.

4:00 PM

Reception

Enjoy a reception, meet fellow attendees, and celebrate the history and accomplishments of Lone Star Legal Aid.

Don't miss this opportunity to gather together and reflect on the remarkable impact we've made. It's a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, hear inspiring stories, and honor the dedicated individuals who have contributed to our success.

Together, we have made a difference in countless lives. Let's come together to celebrate this milestone and look ahead to an even brighter future. Your presence will make this event truly memorable!

Continuing Legal Education will be provided for all attendees.

Event Co-Sponsors: Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University, Sue Scott Perry, and Buffalo Bayou Brewing.