California Lawyers Association: Join us for Community-led Lawyering Winning Environmental Justice Protections, a panel exploring how grassroots organizing and legal advocacy work together to achieve lasting environmental change. Featuring the ELS Trailblazer Award winner Communities for a Better Environment (CBE), this session highlights how community-led case development strengthens legal strategies and drives durable protections.
In October 2025, the Environmental Law Section honored CBE with its annual Trailblazer Award for its pioneering model—since 1978—combining community organizing, legal advocacy, and research to improve conditions in underserved communities. CBE continues to shape the legal landscape through impactful cases and innovations like its legal apprenticeship program.
Panelists will share California-based examples demonstrating how community engagement—from research to litigation—builds power, shapes outcomes, and ensures accountability. Participants will gain practical insights into community-centered lawyering, collaboration, and advancing environmental justice. This interactive session also invites attendees to reflect, connect, and engage with peers, fostering shared learning and future collaboration. Free MCLE credit 1.5 hours Elimination of Bias
Speakers: Laura Gracia, Kendall Chappell, and Roberto Cabrales
Moderator: Jennifer Ganata