Each February, Black History Month offers an opportunity not only to reflect on the past, but to recognize the students and organizations shaping the future of the legal profession. At the University of Chicago Law School, the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) stands at the center of that work—honoring a powerful legacy while advancing community, advocacy, and opportunity for today’s law students.

A National Movement, a Local Chapter

UChicago Law’s BLSA is part of the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA), a nationwide network of more than 180 chapters. Like its counterparts across the country, BLSA is dedicated to supporting Black law students as they “excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.”

The organization is led by a student-run executive board, and under the leadership of 2025–2026 President Rinsolu Oisaghie, ’27, BLSA is focused on building a strong and connected community.

“The experience of every Black student at UChicago may be unique, but BLSA is about having a space to come together, share, and be in community—not only for support and advice, but also for fun,” Oisaghie shared. “It’s about knowing that you always have someone to support you every step of the way.”

At the Law School, members of BLSA are exposed to a wide range of academic support and professional development opportunities, including test‑taking workshops, résumé reviews, cover‑letter guidance, and job‑search assistance. The organization also hosts guest speakers and campus conversations designed to raise awareness about issues affecting Black law students and the broader Black community.

There are also a number of traditions BLSA members work hard to preserve, Sanye T. Sichinga, ’26, said. One of the most significant being the annual Parsons Dinner, which honors the legacy of James B. Parsons, ’49, the first African American to serve as an Article III federal judge. Going on its ninth year, the event invites a member of the judiciary to be recognized for their leadership and contributions to the legal profession.

“This dinner is the crown jewel of BLSA programming,” Sichinga said. “As future lawyers, it is important that we recognize and celebrate individuals who are dedicated to both our community and profession.”

Beyond campus, members are encouraged to attend regional and national NBLSA conferences, where UChicago Law students regularly compete in moot court competitions.

A Commitment to Community

While much of BLSA’s work is visible through its events and programming, its influence on the Law School’s culture often extends beyond what appears on the calendar. Sichinga, who served as BLSA’s 2024-2025 vice president, argues that the organization doesn’t just benefit Black law students—their work positively affects the wider student body as well.

“BLSA plays a huge role in shaping UChicago Law culture,” she said. “Especially with regard to programming, BLSA is an innovator when it comes to creating new ideas that inspire other students and organizations.”

Sichinga also noted that BLSA leaders are frequently in close communication with Law School leadership, advocating for student needs in ways that benefit the broader student community, and not just their organization.

For Oisaghie, that advocacy feels especially urgent today.

“Being part of a strong legal community is especially important at a time where the rule of law is under attack,” Oisaghie said. “It’s incredibly important to have a space to talk about these issues and build solidarity—not only within the Black community, but with other communities that are especially vulnerable.”

Rooted in History

The Law School’s BLSA chapter is named in honor of Earl B. Dickerson, a trailblazing lawyer, civil rights leader, and the first African American to earn a Juris Doctor from the Law School in 1920. But the history of Black students at UChicago Law extends even further back.

In 1918, Nelson M. Willis became the first Black man to earn a Bachelor of Laws from the Law School, a degree that was phased out in 1937. For many years, Dickerson was believed to be the first Black graduate of UChicago Law, until new research brought Willis’s story to light. 

On October 14, 2019, BLSA unveiled a plaque commemorating the life and career of Willis. Installed adjacent to an existing plaque honoring Dickerson, the memorial symbolically connects two pioneers whose paths overlapped at the Law School.

For today’s BLSA leaders, this history carries a clear responsibility.

“No matter how hard things seem, I’m not the first to struggle through it,” Oisaghie shared. “Past generations of Black lawyers and law students made UChicago what it is today. Now it’s our responsibility to pick up their work and pay it forward.

Celebrating Black History Month 2026

For Sichinga, the connection between past and present feels especially important during Black History Month.

“What’s most important to me about honoring Black student leadership in the present is not shying away from it and calling it what it is,” Sichinga said. “It’s important that our school is open and vocal about all that we do here and now that impacts our school and broader community.”

BLSA’s Black History Month programming reflects that ethos, bringing students, faculty, and alumni together for a series of educational and community-building events. Highlights from the 2026 programming include:

• February 5, 2026: The Earl B. Dickerson Memorial Lecture
• February 12, 2026: Black History Month, Part 1 ft. Bryan Stevenson
• February 19, 2026:  Black History Month, Part 2 ft. Janette Wallace
   

“Community is a Catalyst for Joy”

“BLSA creates space for joy and resilience by cultivating a culture of community, support, and mentorship,” Sichinga shared. “Community is a catalyst for joy, and support builds resilience.”

That sense of connection extends well beyond the walls of the Law School.

“My BLSA mentors have long since graduated and (mostly) left Chicago, and yet I know that if I reach out, they would be there,” she added. “Knowing you have a support system like that makes it a lot less scary to take risks.”

Looking ahead, BLSA’s future will continue to be shaped by the students who lead it.

“The best thing about BLSA is that it truly becomes whatever the current members make it,” Oisaghie said. “All I hope to leave behind is encouragement, support, and the belief that the sky is the limit for Black students. Making it to UChicago Law is already something to be incredibly proud of.”

When asked what brings them joy these days, Oisaghie and Sichinga didn’t hesitate.

“My friends and family,” Sichinga shared. “They make me laugh, encourage me when law school gets hard, and always push me to be my absolute best. I’ve also been making my own cold brew—that definitely brings a lot of joy.”

“Spending time with friends,” Oisaghie added. “And reading fantasy novels, ice skating, and watching Real Housewives.”