Juanita Jackson Mitchell is honored by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter as part of its Black History Month celebration, recognizing her historic achievement as the first Black woman admitted to practice law in Maryland. A fearless civil rights advocate and legal trailblazer, Mitchell devoted her life to dismantling segregation, expanding voting rights, and advancing racial justice through both community activism and courtroom advocacy.

Sherrilyn Ifill is recognized by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Women’s History Month for her extraordinary contributions to civil rights, constitutional law, and legal scholarship. A nationally respected advocate and longtime Maryland resident, Ifill has dedicated her career to advancing racial justice, empowering communities, and protecting democratic institutions through legal and academic leadership.

Donald Gaines Murray is recognized by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter as Black History Month concludes, honoring his pioneering role in the desegregation of higher education. As the first Black student admitted to the University of Maryland School of Law, Murray’s courage and legal fight reshaped the trajectory of civil rights in the United States. His landmark case, Murray v. Pearson, not only opened doors for Black students in Maryland but laid the foundation for the broader dismantling of educational segregation.

Everett J. Waring is recognized by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Black History Month as a pioneering figure in the legal history of the state. In 1885, he became the first Black attorney admitted to practice law in Maryland—breaking a major racial barrier and laying the foundation for generations of African American legal professionals. His remarkable legacy spans courtroom advocacy, constitutional litigation, and a historic appearance before the U.S. Supreme Court.