Announcing Our 2023 CILA Law Student Scholarship Recipients
Thanks to a grant from San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, CILA was able to offer five $2,000 scholarships to current Native law school students to assist with law school related expenses. Our scholarship recipients were chosen out of a competitive pool of law students. CILA is proud to announce our five scholars below!
DAWN STURDEVANT BAUM AND CHAIRPERSON JANET K. BILL
HONORED FOR ACHIEVEMENTS IN INDIAN LAW
The California Indian Law Association, Inc. (CILA) is proud to announce that the late Dawn Sturdevant Baum is the 2023 recipient of CILA’s Outstanding Achievement in California Indian Law Award and Janet K. Bill is the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Young Attorney Award. To learn more about this year's honorees, please see the press release below:
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CILA Law Student Scholarship Application Open!
Call for Submissions for CILA's Legal Updates
CILA is currently accepting submissions on legal updates for our monthly newsletter. These legal updates can be an article (published or unpublished), case note, short blurb, or other media updating CILA membership on federal Indian law, California Indian law, and tribal law. To submit, please email your submission to info@calindianlaw.org.
Interested in joining the Legal Journal Committee? Want to learn more about the committee's work? Check out the committee description here. If you're interested in joining the committee or submitting an article for consideration to be published, email us at info@calindianlaw.org
Interested in joining the Legal Journal Committee? Want to learn more about the committee's work? Check out the committee description here. If you're interested in joining the committee or submitting an article for consideration to be published, email us at info@calindianlaw.org
2023 California Indian Law Conference Registration is Open!
CILA is pleased to announce that registration for the 23rd Annual Indian Law Conference & Awards Dinner is open! The conference will take place October 2 - 3, 2023 at the Graton Resort and Casino in Rohnert Park, California. Optional pre-meetings will take place Sunday, October 1. This annual conference explores legal topics of vital interest to California tribes and California Indian law practitioners. This year’s theme is “Protecting Tribal Resources”. To learn more about the conference and view the agenda-at-a-glance, visit the 2023 Conference page on the CILA website.
You can register at bit.ly/CILAConference2023. As part of your 2023 conference registration, you will receive 2023-2024 CILA Membership. In order to activate your membership, you must complete the 2023-2024 CILA Membership Registration form via SurveyMonkey. The link will be provided to you during Conference registration.
If you have any questions about this year’s conference or registration, please contact info@calindianlaw.org.
You can register at bit.ly/CILAConference2023. As part of your 2023 conference registration, you will receive 2023-2024 CILA Membership. In order to activate your membership, you must complete the 2023-2024 CILA Membership Registration form via SurveyMonkey. The link will be provided to you during Conference registration.
If you have any questions about this year’s conference or registration, please contact info@calindianlaw.org.
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APPLICATION CLOSED: CILA 3L Affinity Scholarship
Apply now for CILA's 3L Affinity Scholarship! CILA will award one $5,000 scholarship to a recent law school graduate planning to take the bar exam this summer! To apply, email us at info@calindianlaw.org with your statement of interest, resume, and transcript. Applications are due May 27, 2023!
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Call for Self-Nominations: 2023 CILA Board Position Opening!
Call for Board Self-Nominations! There is one, short-term opening for a CILA Board of Directors position starting immediately and term ending October 2023. We encourage those interested to run for the full term at our upcoming CILA Conference in October at Graton Resort and Casino. CILA is a 100% volunteer Board and currently oversees one staff member-- a project coordinator. The strength of CILA is highly dependent on the passion and dedication of the Board of Directors!
Must be a CILA member in good standing to qualify. Learn more about the position here.
Apply by filling out the Self-Nomination Form linked below. If you have any questions, email us at info@calindianlaw.org
Must be a CILA member in good standing to qualify. Learn more about the position here.
Apply by filling out the Self-Nomination Form linked below. If you have any questions, email us at info@calindianlaw.org
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Congratulations to the 2023 ChangeLawyers & CILA 3L Diversity Scholar:
Chloe Freeman!
Chloë is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, and is of Lenni Lenape, Shawnee, and Cherokee descent. She holds a B.F.A. in Dance from San Diego State University and will graduate with a J.D. and a specialization in Critical Race Studies from UCLA School of Law this May. Chloe’s journey from dance to law is tethered by her commitment to justice—as a dance artist, Chloë’s work centered on movement as a means for social change, and as a law student and future attorney, she is committed to justice and liberation for marginalized communities. Chloë is the Co-Editor in Chief of the Indigenous Peoples’ Journal of Law, Culture, & Resistance, where she proudly supports Indigenous legal scholarship, and she has also served on the board of the Native American Law Students Association for all three years of law school. Fueled by her ancestors’ experiences of harm at the hands of colonial systems, Chloë is committed to federal Indian law as a means of liberation and self-determination for Indigenous communities in California and beyond.
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Thank you to all the new members that signed up during CILA's Membership Drive!
Thank you to everyone who participated in CILA's 2022-2023 Membership Drive! We would also like to thank those who visited us at Fed Bar for our membership drive. We look forward to engaging CILA members in our programs and committees this year! If you have any questions about membership or how to get involved, please email us at info@calindianlaw.org
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CILA's 2023 Membership Drive is happening on April 17-18!
CILA 2023 Membership Drive is happening on April 17-18!! New members who sign up during the membership drive will have their membership fees waived. To sign up, simply complete the CILA membership survey linked below on April 17 or 18.
CILA will also be tabling at the Fed Bar Indian Law Conference. Come visit us to learn more and sign up!
Complete the CILA membership survey on April 17-18 here: https://bit.ly/CILAmembership
To learn more about membership benefits and opportunities, click here.
If you have any questions, email us at info@calindianlaw.org
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2023 Pathway to Law Application & Call for Mentors CLOSED!
CILA is hosting our annual Pathway to Law program for prospective Native law students. The application for prospective Native law students hoping to attend the program can be found by clicking below and is due March 3rd.
Attorneys interested in mentoring CILA's 2023 Pathway to Law cohort of prospective Native law students can sign up by clicking the link below. Applications are due by March 3rd.
Attorneys interested in mentoring CILA's 2023 Pathway to Law cohort of prospective Native law students can sign up by clicking the link below. Applications are due by March 3rd.
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Thank You for Attending the 2022 Annual California Indian Law Conference!
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Thank you for making the 2022 Annual California Indian Law Conference a successful event! The Board of Directors thanks you for your support.
If you have any post-event questions or comments, do not hesitate to reach out to us at calindianlaw@gmail.com |
22nd Annual California Indian Law Conference registration is now live!
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The California Indian Law Association is thrilled to announce the 22nd Annual Conference and Awards Dinner on October 2-4, 2022 at the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa!
The conference theme, "Post Self-Determination: A New Era in Indian Law" provides opportunity for law practitioners, Tribal justice personnel, law students, and professionals who may interface with Indian Tribes or Tribal issues to gather and discuss the future of the profession. Over the past 20 years, the conference has tackled important issues ranging from employment law, gaming compacting, Indian child welfare, environmental compliance, and more. Find out more about this year's conference, including registration information, HERE. |
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Do you want to advance the practice of tribal and federal Indian law in California? Are you interested in supporting educational programming, promoting the study of Tribal jurisprudence and providing support to Indigenous students in their pursuit of the legal profession? These are all core tenets of California Indian Law Association's mission and programming - and we need you to help steward the work!
The California Indian Law Association thanks everyone who submitted advance self-nominations for the three Board of Directors positions! There's still time to self-nominate or have another CILA member nominate you at the Annual Membership Meeting on October 3, 2022 at 11:15am at the Morongo Casino Resort and Spa. The Board consists of nine members who serve staggered terms, meaning three positions open each Fall. The organization is highly dependent on the passion and dedication of the Board of Directors - please consider nominating yourself today. Read more here. |
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Materials from Professor Rosser's presentation can be found below.
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2022 Pathway to Law Application CLOSED!
Are you a current college student, recent college graduate, student in a master’s degree program, or tribal leader? Do you identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, First Nations of Canada, or are otherwise indigenous? Are interested in applying to law school?
If so, you are invited to apply to CILA's 2022 Pathway to Law Program, a two-day workshop that will guide you through the law school application process and pair you with an attorney mentor.
This year's program will be virtual and take place March 18-19, 2022.
The application is available here: APPLICATION CLOSED
Applications should be submitted by 5:00 PM PST on February 18, 2022.
This program is generously co-sponsored by California ChangeLawyers.
To be eligible, you must:
- Have ties to California (this includes, but is not limited to, an intention to attend school or work in California following graduation);
- Identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, First Nations of Canada, or are otherwise indigenous. Preference will be given to Native American students affiliated with federally or non-federally recognized California Tribes, but all students are encouraged to apply;
- Be a current college student (at an accredited community college, tribal college/university, or 4 year institution), OR a college graduate, OR a student in a masters or Ph.D. degree program interested in pursing a second advanced degree; AND
- Have completed the equivalent of 2 years of college course work by June 2021; OR worked for a Tribe or Tribal entity for 4 years or more.
Application Elements:
- Resume; AND
- Personal Statement
If so, you are invited to apply to CILA's 2022 Pathway to Law Program, a two-day workshop that will guide you through the law school application process and pair you with an attorney mentor.
This year's program will be virtual and take place March 18-19, 2022.
The application is available here: APPLICATION CLOSED
Applications should be submitted by 5:00 PM PST on February 18, 2022.
This program is generously co-sponsored by California ChangeLawyers.
To be eligible, you must:
- Have ties to California (this includes, but is not limited to, an intention to attend school or work in California following graduation);
- Identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, First Nations of Canada, or are otherwise indigenous. Preference will be given to Native American students affiliated with federally or non-federally recognized California Tribes, but all students are encouraged to apply;
- Be a current college student (at an accredited community college, tribal college/university, or 4 year institution), OR a college graduate, OR a student in a masters or Ph.D. degree program interested in pursing a second advanced degree; AND
- Have completed the equivalent of 2 years of college course work by June 2021; OR worked for a Tribe or Tribal entity for 4 years or more.
Application Elements:
- Resume; AND
- Personal Statement
CILA is a proud sponsor of the ABA SEER Conference on the Intersection of Tribal Rights with Environmental, Energy and Resources Development
Feb 15-16, 2022
Registration for the virtual conference is available now at ambar.org/tribalconference.
CILA members receive $50 off the cost of registration. Simply use the code “TRSPONSOR” to have the discount applied
About the Conference
As the Biden administration and many states increase emphasis on expanding the clean energy economy, vigorously addressing climate change and promoting energy and environmental justice, many federal and state policies, goals, and objectives will align with efforts in Indian Country—and some will be in conflict.
The ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (SEER) is sponsoring this virtual conference focused on the "Intersection of Tribal Rights with Environment, Energy, and Resources Development," which will bring together national legal experts from private practice, tribal in-house counsel, and academia to discuss these alignments and conflicts.
The conference will focus on natural resource development, water quality and water rights, clean energy and climate change resiliency, and international best practices. Whether you represent or work with Indian tribes; work for energy developers, the federal government, or state environmental agencies; or want to learn more about this critical intersection of energy development and tribal issues, this conference is an opportunity to understand the important role of tribes in these federal or state policy efforts.
CILA members receive $50 off the cost of registration. Simply use the code “TRSPONSOR” to have the discount applied
About the Conference
As the Biden administration and many states increase emphasis on expanding the clean energy economy, vigorously addressing climate change and promoting energy and environmental justice, many federal and state policies, goals, and objectives will align with efforts in Indian Country—and some will be in conflict.
The ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (SEER) is sponsoring this virtual conference focused on the "Intersection of Tribal Rights with Environment, Energy, and Resources Development," which will bring together national legal experts from private practice, tribal in-house counsel, and academia to discuss these alignments and conflicts.
The conference will focus on natural resource development, water quality and water rights, clean energy and climate change resiliency, and international best practices. Whether you represent or work with Indian tribes; work for energy developers, the federal government, or state environmental agencies; or want to learn more about this critical intersection of energy development and tribal issues, this conference is an opportunity to understand the important role of tribes in these federal or state policy efforts.
2021 California Indian Law Virtual Panel Series
The safety of our communities and elders is of paramount importance to CILA. In light of the Delta variant and significant increase in COVID-19 cases, the CILA Board of Directors has decided to cancel our in-person conference this year and hold the 2021 California Indian Law Virtual Panel Series via Zoom from October through December 2021.
Registration is now open at https://www.eventbrite.com/.../2021-california-indian-law.... Further details and updates will be posted here and on our website at calindianlaw.org/conference.html. We hope you are able to join us!
Since 2000, CILA hosts an annual conference dedicated to the exploration of legal topics of interest to California Indian tribes and to provide continuing education on cutting edge legal issues for Native attorneys and attorneys practicing Native law in California. Over the past 20 years, the conference has tackled important issues ranging from employment law, gaming compacting, Indian child welfare, environmental compliance, and more. Each year's agenda is determined by feedback from our membership, reflecting the issues faced by tribal clients and Indian County as a whole.
The annual event also includes the opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of our peers by the presentation of the Outstanding Achievement in California Indian Law and Outstanding Young Attorney awards. This year, we honor Judge Claudette White with the Outstanding Achievement in California Indian Law award and present Geneva Thompson with the 2021 Outstanding Young Attorney award.
LINK TO WRITTEN MATERIALS (FOR ALL SESSIONS): https://www.dropbox.com/sh/i7qm39nqc8okalc/AAA-qUDBFjNWWmSPsfz-bM4Va?dl=0
Announcing New CILA Board Members
CILA is thrilled to welcome our newest Board Members! Visit this page to learn more about the current CILA Board.
CILA extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to departing Board Members: Erica Costa, Cheyenne Sanders, Janet Bill and Loretta Miranda.
CILA extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to departing Board Members: Erica Costa, Cheyenne Sanders, Janet Bill and Loretta Miranda.
Michelle Castagne
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Xavier Barraza
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Angi Cavaliere
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Simon Gertler
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Fall 2021 CILA Legal Journal
The CILA Legal Journal Committee has published the third edition of the CILA Legal Journal. A huge thanks to our contributors and all who made the Journal possible this year! Download your copy today on this page.
Announcing the Fall 2021 CILA Scholars!
We are honored to award each of these four Native law students a $2500.00 scholarship towards their legal education. Congratulations, all!
Kathryn Bussey
Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma Yale Law |
Tim Rosenberger, Jr.
Tonawanda Seneca Stanford Law |
Lena Neuner
Karuk Tribe Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law |
Jessica Govindu
Wichita And Affiliated Tribes and Kickapoo Tribe UCLA Law |
CILA's Fall 2021 Native American Law Student Scholarship
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CILA is now accepting applications for the Fall 2021 Native American Law Students Scholarship.
Applications are due Saturday, July 31, 2021. CILA will award four (4) $2,500.00 scholarships to Native law students. Information on eligibility, application components, and the application form may be downloaded here. Questions? Email us at calindianlaw@gmail.com. Update 06/24/21: Scholarship FAQs |
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CILA's June Scholarship Event - June 11, 2021
Please join CILA in honoring Ryann Garcia as CILA's 2021 3L Diversity Scholar.
Here are a few remarks from Ryann.
"I am honored to be selected as the 2021 California Indian Law Association 3L Diversity Scholarship with California ChangeLawyers. I am a current 3L student at UCLA School of Law specializing in Critical Race Studies and International and Comparative Law. My work and studies focus on Indian Law with an emphasis in Indigenous international human rights, migration, cultural resources protections, and religious freedoms. As I begin the pursuit of my legal career post-graduation, this scholarship will provide me with the ability to join the fight to restore Indigenous histories and greater self-determination. Financial support for public interest students like myself is pivotal in providing the opportunities for advocates to engage in work grounded in social justice. This scholarship allows me to stay committed to this service of advocacy in advancing resources for Indigenous communities to expand tribal rights and interests."
Please register for this event at the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIsdO6qqTIiGdZf1h2puh1hCASZouLbFFq1
Here are a few remarks from Ryann.
"I am honored to be selected as the 2021 California Indian Law Association 3L Diversity Scholarship with California ChangeLawyers. I am a current 3L student at UCLA School of Law specializing in Critical Race Studies and International and Comparative Law. My work and studies focus on Indian Law with an emphasis in Indigenous international human rights, migration, cultural resources protections, and religious freedoms. As I begin the pursuit of my legal career post-graduation, this scholarship will provide me with the ability to join the fight to restore Indigenous histories and greater self-determination. Financial support for public interest students like myself is pivotal in providing the opportunities for advocates to engage in work grounded in social justice. This scholarship allows me to stay committed to this service of advocacy in advancing resources for Indigenous communities to expand tribal rights and interests."
Please register for this event at the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIsdO6qqTIiGdZf1h2puh1hCASZouLbFFq1
CILA's Free Virtual California Indian Law Series
CILA is offering two free legal education sessions. Sessions are free and open to all; CILA membership is not required. Both sessions will be hosted via Zoom and registration is required. Please note that CILA intends to record both sessions.
One registration link for both events:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsdOmoqTgiHdGFLGDteCWs8thIhzBbetUa
Important note for attorneys seeking MCLE credit:
CILA will seek 1.0 California MCLE credit for each session, but state bar approval is not guaranteed. Written materials will be made available to all attendees.
One registration link for both events:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsdOmoqTgiHdGFLGDteCWs8thIhzBbetUa
Important note for attorneys seeking MCLE credit:
CILA will seek 1.0 California MCLE credit for each session, but state bar approval is not guaranteed. Written materials will be made available to all attendees.
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SESSION ONE: JUDGE CHRISTINE WILLIAMS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 19, 2021 AT 12:00 PDT 
JUDGE CHRISTINE WILLIAMS BIOGRAPHY
JUDGE WILLIAMS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 1 JUDGE WILLIAMS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 2 JUDGE WILLIAMS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 3 FOR ATTORNEY ATTENDEES: MCLE RECORD OF ATTENDANCE (GOOGLE FORM; FILLABLE) MCLE RECORD OF ATTENDANCE (PDF; REMIT TO CALINDIANLAW@GMAIL.COM) AFTER THE SESSION, PLEASE COMPLETE THIS EVALUATION FORM: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/D7B8PDS |
SESSION TWO: AMY CORDALIS
THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 AT 12:00 PDT 
AMY CORDALIS BIOGRAPHY
AMY CORDALIS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 1 AMY CORDALIS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 2 AMY CORDALIS SESSION WRITTEN MATERIALS 3 FOR ATTORNEY ATTENDEES: MCLE RECORD OF ATTENDANCE (GOOGLE FORM; FILLABLE) MCLE RECORD OF ATTENDANCE (PDF; REMIT TO CALINDIANLAW@GMAIL.COM) AFTER THE SESSION, PLEASE COMPLETE THIS EVALUTION FORM: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/D97GRRB |
2021 CILA Membership Drive - April 8-9, 2021
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The CILA Board has waived all Membership Dues from 12:00 AM Pacific Time on Thursday, April 8 - 11:59 PM Pacific Time on Friday April 9, 2021.
To sign up for free CILA Membership during the 2021 Membership Drive complete the Membership from at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H7FFXNB Dues waiver applies to completed online Membership forms submitted between 12:00 AM Pacific Time on Thursday, April 8 - 11:59 PM Pacific Time on Friday April 9, 2021 ONLY. CILA Membership runs October - October and does not renew automatically. Would you like to make a donation in lieu of Membership Dues? Please click here. Questions? Contact CILA directly at calindianlaw@gmail.com. |
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CILA Seeks Qualified Attorney Mentors
The CILA Board invites interested attorney mentors to complete this short survey to express interest in being paired with one or more mentees. Open to all! CILA Membership not required. Questions? Please email calindianlaw@gmail.com
Link to survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZYBZYCW
Link to survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZYBZYCW
CILA's Virtual Meet & Greet with our 2021 Scholars
Join CILA for our upcoming virtual meet and greet with the 2021 CILA Scholars. All are welcome, no cost to attend. Click this link to register via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvcOutqT0iHdAjow5IAdGT9Y7bGyOvgaIr
Introducing the 2021 Pathway to Law Cohort!
CILA is happy to introduce the 2021 Pathway to Law Cohort! They will participate in CILA's 3rd Annual Pathway to Law Program, to be hosted virtually March 5-6, 2021. This program is generously supported by California ChangeLawyers, National Native American Bar Association, and the Tribal Justice Project at UC Davis School of Law. Please welcome these individuals to our community!
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CILA's February Virtual Mixer
Join CILA for the upcoming virtual mixer, February 11, 2021 at 5:00 PM PST. All are welcome, no cost to attend. Click the graphic below to register via Zoom.
2021 Pathway to Law Application Now Open!
Are you a current college student, recent college graduate, student in a master’s degree program, or tribal leader? Do you identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or First Nations of Canada? Are interested in applying to law school?
If so, you are invited to apply to CILA's 2021 Pathway to Law Program, a two-day workshop that will guide you through the law school application process and pair you with an attorney mentor.
This year's program will be virtual and take place March 5-6, 2021.
This program is generously co-sponsored by California ChangeLawyers, the National Native American Bar Association Foundation, and the Tribal Justice Project.
To be eligible, you must:
- Have ties to California (this includes, but is not limited to, an intention to attend school or work in California following graduation);
- Identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or First Nations of Canada. Preference will be given to Native American students affiliated with federally or non-federally recognized California Tribes, but all students are encouraged to apply;
- Be a current college student (at an accredited community college, tribal college/university, or 4 year institution), OR a college graduate, OR a student in a master’s degree program interested in pursing a second advanced degree; AND
- Have completed the equivalent of 2 years of college course work by June 2020; OR worked for a Tribe or Tribal entity for 4 years or more.
Application Elements: This Application will require you to complete or upload the following components:
- Resume; AND
- Personal Statement
The application is available here: https://forms.gle/3mAosUYy4FRzcF8N6
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM PST on February 14, 2021.
2021 3L Diversity Scholarship Application Now Open
Are you a diverse law student committed to a career in public interest and social justice? Will you be sitting for the upcoming Summer 2021 California Bar Exam? Do you envision working as an attorney in California, with a goal of creating a more just and representative justice system?
If so, you are invited to apply to California ChangeLawyers 3L Diversity Scholarship. If you are a Native 3L, we encourage you to indicate you wish to apply to the California Indian Law Association co-sponsored scholarship - an option in Section 6 of the ChangeLawyers application.
The co-sponsored CILA scholarship will be awarded to one recipient in 2021. The cash award is $5,000.00.
Full details and link to apply available at: https://californiachangelawyers.submittable.com/submit/182835/2021-california-changelawyers-3l-diversity-scholarship
Please note: This application will close on February 16th, 2021 at 5:00 PM (PST.) Applications must be fully submitted by this deadline. There will be no exceptions or extensions provided.
Are you a diverse law student committed to a career in public interest and social justice? Will you be sitting for the upcoming Summer 2021 California Bar Exam? Do you envision working as an attorney in California, with a goal of creating a more just and representative justice system?
If so, you are invited to apply to California ChangeLawyers 3L Diversity Scholarship. If you are a Native 3L, we encourage you to indicate you wish to apply to the California Indian Law Association co-sponsored scholarship - an option in Section 6 of the ChangeLawyers application.
The co-sponsored CILA scholarship will be awarded to one recipient in 2021. The cash award is $5,000.00.
Full details and link to apply available at: https://californiachangelawyers.submittable.com/submit/182835/2021-california-changelawyers-3l-diversity-scholarship
Please note: This application will close on February 16th, 2021 at 5:00 PM (PST.) Applications must be fully submitted by this deadline. There will be no exceptions or extensions provided.
CILA Virtual Holiday Mixer
Who: You! All community members are welcome, CILA Membership is not required
What: A virtual holiday mixer! Join us for an evening of door prizes and fun. We invite you to wear your favorite festive sweater.
Where: This event is virtual, join us on Zoom from where ever you are
When: Thursday, December 17, 2020 at 5:00 PM PST
Please register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtfuipqz8jG92XrPE5r9lwScCPyPr9a6Wu
Announcing the 2020-2021 Board of Directors
Get to know this year's CILA Board of Directors by visiting this page. Have questions or want to reach out? Please email calindianlaw.org and a member of the Board will return your email soon.
Get to know this year's CILA Board of Directors by visiting this page. Have questions or want to reach out? Please email calindianlaw.org and a member of the Board will return your email soon.
Thank You for Attending the 20th Annual California Indian Law Conference
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Thank you for making the 20th Annual California Indian Law Conference our most popular event to date! The Board of Directors thanks you for your support.
Please be aware our application for MCLE credit with the California State Bar is still pending. If you have any post-event questions or comments, do not hesitate to reach out to us at calindianlaw@gmail.com |
Registration Now Open for the 20th Annual California Indian Law Conference
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Registration is now live for the 2020 California Indian Law Conference and Honoring Celebration, our first virtual conference! We hope you will be able to join us this year. Full details and updates will be posted on the 2020 Virtual Conference page. 10/02/20 Update: AGENDA released 10/03/20 Update: Virtual Silent Auction site launched! Announcement: Click Here for registration to the Virtual UCLA Law Student, Alumni & Faculty Mixer, taking place 4:00 PM PST on Friday, October 16, 2020. |
CILA Summer 2020 Legal Journal Announcement
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20th Annual California Indian Law Conference Registration Opening Soon
Please take a minute to fill out our Conference Survey HERE so we can ensure that we are meeting the needs of our members.
Thank you!
Thank you!
CILA is proud to announce the recipient of the 2020 California Indian Law Association affinity 3L ChangeLawyers scholarship, Janet Bill! Ms. Bill will receive a $5,000 cash award and be connected with resources from CILA and ChangeLawyers.
Please join us in congratulating Janet!
Thank you for Supporting CILA's 2020 Pathway to Law School Program
March 6-7, 2020 at UC Davis School of Law
Congratulations to our 2020 Cohort
Thank you to our partners: California ChangeLawyers, the National Native American Bar Association Foundation, the Tribal Justice Program at UC Davis School of Law, TestMasters, and Golden Gate University School of Law.
We are already planning for 2021! If you are interested in supporting our 3rd Annual Program, please email calindianlaw@gmail.com
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Submit an Article or Commentary for the 2020 Legal Journal
20th Annual For People of Color, Inc. (FPOC) Law School Admissions Conference
at UCLA School of Law
Presented by: La Raza Law Students Association, Native American Law Students Association, South Asian Law Students Association, Asian Pacific Islander Law Students Association & For People of Color, Inc.
When: Saturday, February 29, 2020, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Where:
UCLA School of Law
385 Charles E. Young Drive East
Los Angeles, California 90095
Event Description: This event will provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the law school application process. Current law students and administrators will provide advice on how best to navigate the law school application process. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.
RSVP: Registration is required. This event is free and open to the public. Since food will be provided and the amount ordered will be based on registration numbers, please make sure you can attend the conference before registering.
Click Here to Register
Personal Statement Review: UCLA School of Law students will review your personal statement. To have your personal statement reviewed by UCLA School of Law students, please send your documents to fpocpc20@gmail.com. (You must attend the conference in order to receive feedback.)
Accommodations, Food preferences or Questions: Please email fpocpc20@gmail.com if you need to request any accommodations and/or if you have any food preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, Kosher, or Halal).
When: Saturday, February 29, 2020, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Where:
UCLA School of Law
385 Charles E. Young Drive East
Los Angeles, California 90095
Event Description: This event will provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the law school application process. Current law students and administrators will provide advice on how best to navigate the law school application process. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.
RSVP: Registration is required. This event is free and open to the public. Since food will be provided and the amount ordered will be based on registration numbers, please make sure you can attend the conference before registering.
Click Here to Register
Personal Statement Review: UCLA School of Law students will review your personal statement. To have your personal statement reviewed by UCLA School of Law students, please send your documents to fpocpc20@gmail.com. (You must attend the conference in order to receive feedback.)
Accommodations, Food preferences or Questions: Please email fpocpc20@gmail.com if you need to request any accommodations and/or if you have any food preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, Kosher, or Halal).
CILA Scholarship Announcement:
Four $2,500 Native Law Student Scholarships!
Application Deadline: September 3, 2019
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The California Indian Law Association (CILA) is proud to announce that it will be offering four $2,500 scholarships to current Native American law school students to assist with law school expenses. These scholarships are made possible through a generous donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
Scholarship requirements:
Scholarship requirements:
- Applicants must be either a current: (1) Native American law school student studying in a California law school; (2) affiliated with federally or non-federally recognized California Tribe studying in any US law school; and/or (3) Native American law school student studying in any US law school, but planning on taking the California Bar and practicing in California. Please clearly state which requirement you meet in your personal statement.
- Preference will be given to applicants affiliated with federally or non-federally recognized California Tribes, but all Native American law school students are encouraged to apply.
- In a personal statement, please describe: (1) your past, present, and future commitment to serving Native American communities; (2) leadership and/or community service roles you currently have or have held in the past; and/or (3) what you hope to do with your law degree. Please limit your statement to three pages.
- Resume.
- Description or documentation of your tribal affiliation.
- Provide the contact information for (1) one academic reference and (1) professional reference.
- Unofficial law school transcript.
- Application form. (Download the application above)
CILA is pleased to announce that registration for the 19th Annual California Indian Law Conference & Gala is now open! Register here. Please note that group rates will be available shortly, please check back soon!
CILA is also excited to announce the publication of the 2019 Spring Legal Journal. Get your copy today here
CILA is also excited to announce the publication of the 2019 Spring Legal Journal. Get your copy today here
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CILA is proud to announce that our 19th Annual Indian Law Conference & Gala will take place:
October 3rd and 4th in Rohnert Park at Graton Resort and Casino!
Registration will open soon!
Thank you for applying for our scholarships!
The California Indian Law Association (CILA) is proud to announce that we were able to offer two $5,000 scholarships to current Native American law school students to assist with law school expenses.
These scholarships are made possible through a generous donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
Learn more about San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at https://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov/
Learn more about San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at https://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov/
Job Opportunity with CILA!
CILA is hiring a Program Coordinator!
Please see the flyer below and visit our new "Job Announcements" webpage for more information.
Please see the flyer below and visit our new "Job Announcements" webpage for more information.
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Call for Articles for the 2019 CILA Legal Journal!
CILA welcomes submissions for publication in its newsletter. If you are interested in submitting an article for the newsletter, please send us an email!
Thank you for attending the 18th Annual CILA Conference and Gala!
Conference materials can be found HERE or on the "Resources" page
Photos and the conference program are available HERE or on the "2018 Annual Conference" page.
Photos and the conference program are available HERE or on the "2018 Annual Conference" page.
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2019 CILA CONFERENCE
OCTOBER 3-4, 2019
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA LOCATION TBD
Thank you to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for your generous donation!
CILA is proud to announce additional scholarships for current Native law students. These new scholarships are made possible through a generous donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Thank you for supporting the next generation of Native attorneys in California!
Learn more about San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at https://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov/
Learn more about San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at https://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov/
Read the latest edition of the CILA Newsletter here!
CILA Director John H. Haney Featured in LA Lawyer Magazine
February, 2018- The magazine of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine, features an interview of John H. Haney discussing Indian law, culture, and CILA. Read the magazine HERE
2018 California Indian Law Association - California Bar Foundation 3L Diversity Scholarship
The California Indian Law Association (“CILA”), has proudly partnered with the California Bar Foundation on a 3L Diversity Scholarship to be awarded to a graduating Native American law student preparing to take the California Bar Examination in 2018.
CILA is looking for an aspiring Native lawyer committed to a public interest career and serving Native communities. Applicants do not have to graduate from a California law school, but must be planning to take the California Bar Examination in 2018.
Please be prepared to provide a description or documentation of your tribal affiliation. Your personal statement must describe your past, present, and future commitment to serving Native communities. For more information, visit https://www.calbarfoundation.org/diversity-scholarships.html
Deadline: Tuesday, February 15, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. PST
Scholarship Application: https://www.tfaforms.com/452612
CILA is looking for an aspiring Native lawyer committed to a public interest career and serving Native communities. Applicants do not have to graduate from a California law school, but must be planning to take the California Bar Examination in 2018.
Please be prepared to provide a description or documentation of your tribal affiliation. Your personal statement must describe your past, present, and future commitment to serving Native communities. For more information, visit https://www.calbarfoundation.org/diversity-scholarships.html
Deadline: Tuesday, February 15, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. PST
Scholarship Application: https://www.tfaforms.com/452612
January 2018 Announcements
501(c)(3) Status Achieved
2018 3L Diversity Scholarship
CLE Webinar
I am very pleased to announce that the California Indian Law Association is now classified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)(3) public charity.
The IRS has informed us that, retroactive to July 6, 2017, charitable contributions to CILA may be deducted under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 170 and that CILA is now qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under IRC Sections 2055, 2106, or 2522. Please consult with tax professionals with any specific questions you may have about the deductibility of contributions to CILA.
A special thank you is warranted to past CILA Boards and members for their contributions to this important achievement. Former CILA Presidents Christine Williams, Adam Bailey, and Courtney Cole most recently championed this initiative and helped put several important pieces into place prior to the submission of the application. We thank them, our past Board members, and all of you for the support that made this possible.
Tax-deductible donations will allow CILA to expand our educational and professional development offerings to CILA Members and Native American law students. This year, CILA will once again co-sponsor a 3L Diversity Scholarship with the California Bar Foundation (CBF). CBF will match CILA’s contribution of $2,500 to provide a $5,000 scholarship to one Native American law student to assist with the costs of preparing for the July 2018 California Bar Exam.
The scholarship application may be accessed at the following link:
https://www.tfaforms.com/452612
You can learn more about the California Bar Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship program here:
https://www.calbarfoundation.org/diversity-scholarships.html
We are also currently developing our first CLE webinar for 2018, which is tentatively scheduled for a February or March timeframe. You will receive more information soon as we finalize the topic, date, and presenter(s).
The CILA Board has many exciting initiatives planned for 2018. We appreciate your continued membership and participation in CILA, and wish you a very happy and productive New Year!
Sincerely,
Will Haney
President
California Indian Law Association, Inc.
2018 3L Diversity Scholarship
CLE Webinar
I am very pleased to announce that the California Indian Law Association is now classified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)(3) public charity.
The IRS has informed us that, retroactive to July 6, 2017, charitable contributions to CILA may be deducted under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 170 and that CILA is now qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under IRC Sections 2055, 2106, or 2522. Please consult with tax professionals with any specific questions you may have about the deductibility of contributions to CILA.
A special thank you is warranted to past CILA Boards and members for their contributions to this important achievement. Former CILA Presidents Christine Williams, Adam Bailey, and Courtney Cole most recently championed this initiative and helped put several important pieces into place prior to the submission of the application. We thank them, our past Board members, and all of you for the support that made this possible.
Tax-deductible donations will allow CILA to expand our educational and professional development offerings to CILA Members and Native American law students. This year, CILA will once again co-sponsor a 3L Diversity Scholarship with the California Bar Foundation (CBF). CBF will match CILA’s contribution of $2,500 to provide a $5,000 scholarship to one Native American law student to assist with the costs of preparing for the July 2018 California Bar Exam.
The scholarship application may be accessed at the following link:
https://www.tfaforms.com/452612
You can learn more about the California Bar Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship program here:
https://www.calbarfoundation.org/diversity-scholarships.html
We are also currently developing our first CLE webinar for 2018, which is tentatively scheduled for a February or March timeframe. You will receive more information soon as we finalize the topic, date, and presenter(s).
The CILA Board has many exciting initiatives planned for 2018. We appreciate your continued membership and participation in CILA, and wish you a very happy and productive New Year!
Sincerely,
Will Haney
President
California Indian Law Association, Inc.
Sponsorship Opportunity for the 17th Annual California Indian Law Association Conference
Greetings! The California Indian Law Association (“CILA”) is pleased to announce that its 17th Annual Indian Law Conference & Gala will take place October 12-13, 2017 at the Thunder Valley Casino and Resort in Lincoln, California. CILA invites you to attend the Annual Conference and Gala. Further, on behalf of the California Indian law community, CILA’s Board of Directors humbly requests your financial support of the Conference through sponsorship.
It is our goal to raise enough funds through sponsorship to cover all conference costs. Your sponsorship will enable CILA to continue to offer scholarships to Native American law students and promote the study of Indian Law in California.
To commit to sponsorship, please send a competed version of the sponsorship form.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Cheyenne Sanders at csanders@yuroktribe.nsn.us or Loretta Miranda at Lmiranda@berkeywilliams.com, the 2017 Conference Co-Chairs.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation at the Acorn level
Morongo Band of Mission Indians at the Acorn level, and
Berkey Williams LLP at the Abalone level
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California Indian Law Association Announces the 2017 California Bar Foundation Diversity Bar Review Scholarship Recipient
The California Indian Law Association (“CILA”) is proud to announce its 2017 California Bar Foundation 3L Diversity Bar Review Scholarship recipient. CILA received an impressive pool of applicants from Native American law students representing California Native nations and Native nations across the country. CILA is proud to support the scholarship recipient by providing a free BARBRI prep course along with a cash living stipend.
Congratulations to Jacklyn Velasquez for receiving CILA’s first ever 3L Diversity Bar Review Scholarship.
Ms. Velasquez is a member of the Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley and will be graduating from Vermont Law School in May 2017. During law school, she has been active in her Native American Law Student Association chapter and returned to her tribe to complete two separate projects. Ms. Velasquez worked with the Big Pine Paiute Tribe Environmental Department on funding requirements for climate change, community outreach, and quality assurance projects, and researched the adverse impacts of a proposed large industrial scale solar project. After graduation and taking the Bar exam, she will work on tribal Clean Water Act issues as part of a two-year Equal Justice Works Fellowship in Madison, Wisconsin. After the fellowship, her plan is to return to California and work in Native law. Ms. Velasquez’s dedication to serving California Native nations, and specifically her own tribe, proves she will be an exceptional Native law attorney and CILA is proud to help support her through her bar studies.
CILA extends a special acknowledgement and appreciation to the California Bar Foundation for matching funds for the scholarship and providing the leadership and infrastructure for these important 3L Diversity Scholarships.
Congratulations to Jacklyn Velasquez for receiving CILA’s first ever 3L Diversity Bar Review Scholarship.
Ms. Velasquez is a member of the Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley and will be graduating from Vermont Law School in May 2017. During law school, she has been active in her Native American Law Student Association chapter and returned to her tribe to complete two separate projects. Ms. Velasquez worked with the Big Pine Paiute Tribe Environmental Department on funding requirements for climate change, community outreach, and quality assurance projects, and researched the adverse impacts of a proposed large industrial scale solar project. After graduation and taking the Bar exam, she will work on tribal Clean Water Act issues as part of a two-year Equal Justice Works Fellowship in Madison, Wisconsin. After the fellowship, her plan is to return to California and work in Native law. Ms. Velasquez’s dedication to serving California Native nations, and specifically her own tribe, proves she will be an exceptional Native law attorney and CILA is proud to help support her through her bar studies.
CILA extends a special acknowledgement and appreciation to the California Bar Foundation for matching funds for the scholarship and providing the leadership and infrastructure for these important 3L Diversity Scholarships.
Transcript Released for Speech Apologizing for
Sandoval and Tee-Hit-Ton SCOTUS Briefs
Culminating our four year effort to acquire information on the Solicitor General's 2011 confessions of error, CILA reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to bring an end to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) suit filed in April of this year.
For more information, click here.
Sandoval and Tee-Hit-Ton SCOTUS Briefs
Culminating our four year effort to acquire information on the Solicitor General's 2011 confessions of error, CILA reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to bring an end to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) suit filed in April of this year.
For more information, click here.
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