Dear APABA-DC Family and Friends,

On August 1st, I concluded my term as President of APABA-DC, marking a moment I continue to reflect on—not as a “transfer of power,” but as a transfer of responsibility. Power is fleeting and often individual; responsibility endures and belongs to all of us.

APABA-DC is the oldest and largest association of Asian American attorneys in the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Since our founding in 1981, we have served our community by promoting the professional growth and advancement of our members, shedding light and serving as a collective voice on issues affecting the legal community and enabling our members to work collaboratively with other leaders in service. We are a steadfast and proud affiliate of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association.

APABA-DC’s 2024–2025 term was extraordinarily productive and successful, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our Board, our Committees, and our members. Together, we offered a record number of programs more than double any prior year in APABA-DC’s history, including: delivering an impactful 10th Annual Trial Re-Enactment of Chy Lung v. Freeman,  deepening our collaboration with other voluntary bar associations aligned in upholding and defending the rule of law and the integrity of the legal profession, strengthening our advocacy efforts through joining in amici and participating in NAPABA’s Lobby Day – all the while continuing our usual quality programming and social outreach. My greatest hope is that our membership and community partners felt that APABA-DC’s efforts this past year were of genuine value —creating opportunities, amplifying voices, and fostering connection and belonging.

Serving as President of APABA-DC was a privilege and a trust—one grounded in the belief that the organization exists not for any one person, but for our mission, our members, and the communities we serve. Over the past year, I have been humbled by the generosity of spirit and unwavering commitment of our members, partners, and allies to advancing justice, inclusion, and connection.

Now, that responsibility rests in the capable hands of our incoming President, Wenxi Li, who takes on the reins of this extraordinarily vibrant, resilient organization that is stronger because of the efforts and support of each of you. My hope is that you all know that APABA-DC’s leadership remains committed to earning and holding  this trust with care: to listen, to uplift, and to carry forward the work with integrity and compassion.

Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving alongside you. While my role has changed, my commitment to APABA-DC remains steadfast. Together, we will continue to build something worthy of those who came before us and inspiring to those who will follow.

With gratitude and respect,

Angeline G. Chen
Past President, APABA-DC (2024–2025)