eJournal

MBA President Victoria M. Santoro

As we all digest the election results, I wanted to address the MBA community and the Massachusetts legal community. I recognize, affirm and respect the outcome of our national election process. I affirm the results of the election as a clear expression of the will of the people. The integrity of the electoral process has been upheld, and it is essential that we move forward with respect for the outcome and for the democratic principles that guide our society.

The diversity of our political views and affiliations strengthens us as a nation, and the MBA will continue to champion civil discourse. It is imperative that we continue to support and safeguard the ideals of our democracy: fairness, transparency, civility and participation. Democracy thrives when all citizens engage in constructive dialogue, respect the rights of others and uphold the rule of law. Together, we must continue the lifelong effort to build a society where these principles are honored and protected for all.

The processes and institutions our commonwealth and country were founded upon distinguish us from the rest of the world. Massachusetts, while liberal by reputation, is composed of conservatives and liberals, independents and academics, Republicans and Democrats, as well as many other manner of thoughts, ideals and life objectives. The MBA was founded upon the principle that all perspectives have validity, all voices should be heard, and lawyers, in particular, have an obligation to the community to defend and facilitate these objectives.

As an organization, the MBA will continue to work, advocate for and support the values and goals of Massachusetts’ lawyers and the broader communities we serve in our commonwealth. First and foremost, the MBA will remain vocally supportive of our democratic processes and institutions on the local, state and national level. As challenges arise, we commit to be present, focused and vocal in our support of an independent judicial system, a fair and impartial legal system, and continuing to protect the rights of our most vulnerable and underrepresented. 

I re-affirm our support of some of our most important pillars this association year, including access to justice initiatives; advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace; supporting the mental health and well-being of everyone in the legal profession; protecting reproductive access and continuing to shine a light on reproductive justice; and health equity. 

Massachusetts is so often a leader on issues of justice, and we strive to continue to remain as such. Massachusetts is strong and full of so many wonderful legal practitioners. I call upon one another to remain open-minded, to listen to one another, and to fight hard for the values we hold dear. 

This message was emailed to all MBA members on Wednesday, Nov. 6.