History has a way of reminding us why our work is not only relevant but necessary.
In a June 23, 1878 article published by The New York Times, North Carolina made national headlines when John Henry Collins, a Black lawyer, was nominated for solicitor in the Second Judicial District. He was described as “the first colored man ever nominated in this State for an office of this kind.”
What followed was not celebration but outrage.
The article details fierce backlash, including public attacks on Black political participation and open resistance to the idea that Black lawyers could serve in positions of authority. The nomination itself was viewed as a disruption of the so called “color line,” and critics warned of consequences if Black citizens exercised political power.
But the story did not end there.
John H. Collins went on to be elected and served two terms as solicitor of the Second Judicial District, holding the position for eight years. At the time, he was the only Black solicitor in North Carolina. His initial nomination sparked outrage, yet his election demonstrated both resilience and the determination of Black voters and communities to claim their rightful place in the legal system. He later lost his bid for a third term to George Henry White, another African American leader who would go on to leave his own mark on North Carolina history.
This is not distant history.
This is North Carolina.
And it underscores a truth we know all too well.
Progress has never been linear, and justice has never been freely given.
At NCABL, we stand on the shoulders of individuals like John Henry Collins, lawyers who stepped forward despite hostility, exclusion, and systemic resistance. Their courage laid the foundation for the work we continue today.
As we confront modern challenges, including ongoing attacks on civil rights, diversity initiatives, and the rule of law, we are reminded that the legal profession has always been a battleground for equity and access.
That is why NCABL exists.
We are:
A voice for justice
A network of support for Black attorneys across North Carolina
A bridge between past struggle and future progress
And most importantly, we are a community that understands
we need each other now more than ever.
Let this history not simply inform us but motivate us.
✔ Engage with NCABL
✔ Support our programming and initiatives
✔ Mentor the next generation of lawyers
✔ Stand firm in defending the rule of law
Because the work that began long before us is still unfolding, and we each have a role to play.
