
The Metropolitan Black Bar Association (MBBA) held its 39th Annual Anniversary Gala last Friday at Chelsea Piers, a night dedicated to the celebration of black excellence in the field of law.
The gala honored trailblazers in the legal profession for their significant contributions to justice and equality. Among the celebrated were Deborah Archer, Trailblazer of the Year; Hon. Tanya Kennedy, Jurist of the Year; Camille Chin Kee Fatt, Public Servant of the Year; Conway Ekpo, Corporate Counsel of the Year; Nexus U. Sea, Private Practitioner of the Year; and Jeremy Garcia, the Presidential awardee.

“Oh, what a night,” exclaimed President Carl Forbes, Jr. “Our celebration of Black Excellence showcased a room full of ‘Prominence, Presence & Professionalism.’ It is a tremendous honor and a privilege to be the President of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association.
“I was deeply moved by everyone’s love and support on Friday,” Forbes continued. “To the Officers and Directors of the MBBA, and all those that contributed, thank you for your work in putting together an amazing event. To our Sponsors, thank you for your continued support of the MBBA.”


One of the spotlights that Friday night was on Lola Waterman, an MBBA Director and Chair of its Community Outreach and Pro Bono Committee. Waterman, a native of Brooklyn and current candidate for Civil Court Judge, was honored as the Member of the Year.
During her speech, Waterman recalled her humble beginnings in East Lansing, Michigan, and explained that she has tirelessly devoted herself to the pursuit of justice ever since her father’s tragic death in Nigeria ignited in her a relentless passion for the law.
Waterman’s honor arrives at a critical time as she sets her sights on the role of Civil Court Judge in Brooklyn. Renowned for her pro bono work and unwavering dedication to equal access to justice, Waterman’s commitment to her community has been a cornerstone of her legal career. As she continues her campaign, she carries the support of her fellow MBBA members, further exemplifying the profound impact she has had on her legal community.
In addition to the honorees, the event also drew some of the biggest names from the legal community including NYC Corporation Counsel Sylvia Hinds-Radix, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, and Congressman Gregory Meeks. Award-winning WNBC anchor David Ushery served as the master of ceremonies for the evening.
One of the evening’s biggest surprises was the unexpected appearance of Mayor Eric Adams, the second Black mayor in NYC’s history. The Mayor, lauded for his dedication to justice and community service, was warmly welcomed by the attendees, lending an even greater sense of prestige and significance to the gala.

President of the MBBA, Carl Forbes Jr., announced the second surprise of the night, revealing plans to honor Chief Judge Rowan Wilson at next year’s gala. This news heightened the anticipatory spirit of the evening, demonstrating the MBBA’s continued commitment to recognizing excellence in the legal field.
“Congratulations to our honorees,” Forbes said. “Thank you for the work that you do and will continue to do. You are all an inspiration to the MBBA to continue advocating for the advancement of equality and excellence in the pursuit of justice.”
While the MBBA’s 39th gala provided a stunning showcase of Black excellence in the legal field, it also signaled a promising future, with leaders like Waterman continuing to make their mark. The event served not only as a testament to the MBBA’s continued commitment to fostering legal excellence but also as a reminder of the profound impact these trailblazers have on their communities and the legal system at large.
















SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.