Greater New Orleans Louis A. Martinet Society, Inc.

Greetings from the President

In 1957, the Louis A. Martinet Legal Society of Louisiana was formed with a specific purpose articulated by the times.  The Civil Rights Movement was in its early stages and the process of achieving equality under the law was a tenuous struggle especially among southern states.  Recognizing that the legal profession in Louisiana was mired by the indignity of bias against minority lawyers, an exceptional group of Black lawyers decided to take a stand, not only for the legal profession, but also for the social order of citizens in Louisiana.  Thus, the founders established their mission, and choosing Louis A. Martinet as its model, the Martinet Legal Society sought to challenge the legal system and its courts to end discrimination in the practice of law, society, and the political process. 

 

Since its inception in 1957, the Greater New Orleans Louis A. Martinet chapter has faced many challenges, but remaining true to its mission, has been an integral contributor in promoting social justice for our community and profession.  As we are within in the fiftieth year of this historical organization, we celebrate its achievements and continue to promote its purpose. 

 Daily, the legal profession and citizens of our community are confronted with ever evolving issues.  In order to continue the charge that our founders set forth, the current administration would like to call upon you to help our chapter of  Martinet focus its goals and align itself with the mission that we have committed to uphold.  We understand the importance of Martinet’s history on the advancement of its future.  It is my hope that we may be inspired by one another to advance our mission for the next fifty years.

 

 

Cherrell R. Simms