Dear Members and Friends,

I am honored to address you as your President during an inspiring season of growth for the LGBT Bar Association and Foundation of Greater New York ("LeGaL").

For nearly 50 years, this organization has stood at the forefront of the fight for justice and equality, built on the dedication of legal pioneers who saw the need for a collective LGBTQ+ voice in the New York legal community. As I step into this role, I am deeply mindful of that history. My goal is to honor our storied legacy by ensuring LGBT Bar NY remains as vital and responsive today as it was at its founding.

As we move into 2026, we are embarking on an organizational "refresh" designed to deepen our connection to you, our members. We are leaning into a dynamic, volunteer-led model that empowers our community to directly shape our programming and the improvement of the legal system. Membership in LGBT Bar NY is more than a professional affiliation; it is a gateway to leadership and a robust network of peers dedicated to excellence.

What’s Ahead: To better serve the evolving needs of the profession, LGBT Bar NY is strategically expanding its Committees and Sections. From the establishment of a new Transgender Law & Advocacy Section to the revitalization of our New Lawyers Committee, we are ensuring there is a specialized "home" for every practitioner, from law students to seasoned lawyers.

I am also thrilled about our upcoming calendar. Our Annual LGBTQ+ Year in Review CLE later this week promises to be both enlightening and a terrific opportunity to network and connect. The Association is grateful to Boies Schiller Flexner LLP for hosting this important educational event. Additionally, our 2026 Annual Gala will take place at City Winery on May 12th. It will be an evening to gather as a community and celebrate our collective triumphs while honoring trailblazers for their vision and service. Stay tuned for the Board's announcement about this year's honorees!

Your Role in Our Success: LGBT Bar NY is only as strong as the engagement of its members. I invite you to explore our new Interest Survey, join a committee, volunteer at our weekly legal clinic, or contribute an article to LGBT Law Notes. Share your vision for what LGBT Bar NY can become. Your feedback will directly inform our 2026 agenda.

Thank you for your continued support and for the vital work you do every day. I look forward to working alongside you to make this year, and our next 50 years, our most impactful yet.

Stay warm and safe,

Hon. Eric J. Wursthorn

President, LGBT Bar Association and Foundation of Greater New York ("LeGaL")