DC Caribbean Bar Association Hosts “Honoring Our Heritage: Caribbean Roots and the Journey to the Bench”
Pictured left to right: Jillean Workman, Magistrate Judge Adriene Marblestein-Deare, Jemel Liverpool, Judge Tanya M. Jones Bosier, Judge Kimberley S. Knowles, Chief Judge Anna Blackburne Rigsby, Zenia Wilson Laws, Leighton Regis, Judge Leslie Meek, and Judge Errol R. Arthur.
On March 12, 2026, the DC Caribbean Bar Association hosted Honoring Our Heritage: Caribbean Roots and the Journey to the Bench at the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. The program brought together members of the legal community for a conversation about the role Caribbean heritage has played in shaping leadership, service, and careers in the law.
The event opened with welcome remarks from Chief Judge Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, followed by opening remarks from Rear Adm. David G. Wilson (U.S. Navy, Ret.). The panel discussion featured Judge Errol R. Arthur, Judge Kimberley S. Knowles, Judge Tanya M. Jones Bosier, and Magistrate Judge Adriene Marblestein-Deare, and was moderated by Chardelle Moore.
During the discussion, the judges shared personal reflections on the families and cultural traditions that shaped their journeys to public service. They spoke about parents and grandparents whose example of hard work, sacrifice, and community leadership laid the foundation for their careers.
Attendees included law students, practicing attorneys, aspiring legal professionals, members of academia, and leaders from the diplomatic and legal community, including notable guests such as The Honorable Judge Leslie Meek., Emile Wallace-Waddell, Community Relations Officer for the Jamaican Embassy, and Josh Mogil, Treasurer of the DC Bar.Their presence highlighted the broad interest and engagement in celebrating Caribbean heritage and public service.
The evening concluded with a reception sponsored by the Law Offices of Gabriel J. Christian & Associates, LLC, featuring Trinbagonian dishes from Crown Bakery DC. Attendees had the opportunity to continue the conversation and connect with members of the growing Caribbean legal community in the greater Washington area.
The program marked an important moment for the DC Caribbean Bar Association as the organization continues to build community, foster mentorship, and celebrate Caribbean excellence in the legal profession.