Dear Friend,

It is hard to believe our 50^th anniversary year is coming to an end. Throughout the year we celebrated and recognized the courageous advocacy of our clients, co-counsel and staff from the past five decades. From a discussion with author Richard Rothstein, to a civil rights scavenger hunt, to our unforgettable Branton Awards Dinner, it has been a proud time in our organization’s history to reflect on the incredible strides that have been made. 
 
While the chapter of our 50^th year is coming to a close, the larger story of the struggle for racial and economic justice continues to be written. We are currently in the trenches, fighting alongside and on behalf of individuals such as Officers of Color at the Prince George’s County Police Department, workers victimized by wage theft, El Salvadorian immigrants who have Temporary Protected Status and immigrants at risk of losing public assistance. This is a critical time and in order to continue this work, we need the support of individuals like you. Please consider making an end of year contribution to the Washington Lawyers’ Committee and join us in the pursuit for what is right and just.

Here's to the next 50 years. 

Jonathan Smith
Executive Director, Washington Lawyers’ Committee

As our 50th anniversary comes to an end, we ask that you consider supporting the Washington Lawyers’ Committee in the fight to dismantle injustice and pursue lasting change. Take a look at our website for examples from throughout 2018 that show just how vital the work that we’re doing is and why we can’t afford to stop now.

Prince Georges County Black and Latinx police officers have for years endure a work environment pervaded by race discrimination and retaliation that also contaminate relationships between police and the community. Eleven officers  along with the Hispanic National Law Enforcement Association and the United Black Police Officers Association, filed suit in federal court challenging PGPD’s pattern and practice of unconstitutional conduct. The Washington Lawyers Committee, the American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland, and Arnold & Porter represent the officers in the case. They are seeking changes to PGPD policies and practices unlawful, comprehensive reforms, and to provide justice to the officers and community members who have experienced this egregious mistreatment. Read more…