Missouri Asian American Bar Association
About Missouri Asian American Bar Association
Founded in October 2001, the Missouri Asian American Bar Association represents over two decades of dedicated advocacy and community service in the St. Louis metro area. What began as a vision shared among pioneering legal professionals has grown into a robust organization with deep roots in Missouri's legal community, guided by founding members including Diane Yu, Hon. Judy Draper, Ari Bai, and others who recognized the importance of supporting Asian American voices in law.
MABA's mission extends far beyond professional networking—the organization is fundamentally committed to representing and advocating for the interests of Asian American attorneys and the broader Asian American communities they serve. Members include judges, law professors, practicing attorneys, and law students who share a commitment to fostering fellowship, encouraging professional development, and coordinating legal services that directly benefit Asian American communities at local and national levels.
The organization serves as a vital gathering place for legal professionals seeking meaningful connections and collaborative opportunities within St. Louis's diverse legal landscape. Through educational programs, community engagement initiatives, and unified advocacy efforts, MAABA provides a forum where Asian American legal professionals can exchange ideas, support one another's growth, and work together on matters of social, political, and economic importance to their communities. With a strong national affiliation through NAPABA, MAABA ensures that St. Louis's Asian American legal community remains connected to broader movements for justice and equity.