Explore Black businesses and organizations in California serving your community. Find law firms, medical practices, restaurants, retail stores, nonprofits, cultural organizations, and community services owned by or dedicated to serving the Black community. Connect with establishments that understand your cultural values and provide services in your language.
Situated at Chapman University's Fowler School of Law in Orange, CA, the Black Law Student Association represents a thriving community of law students united by shared values and a commitment to supporting one another throughout their legal education journey. This student-led organization embodies Chapman University's mission of fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where diverse voices are heard and celebrated. The association serves the Chapman University community in Orange, California by creating spaces for meaningful dialogue, cultural awareness, and professional development among law students. Members of the Black Law Student Association benefit from a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of law school together. The organization plays an important role in enriching the student experience at Chapman's Fowler School of Law, located in Orange, by promoting academic achievement, professional networking, and community involvement. Through its various programs and activities, the association helps students build lasting relationships and develop the interpersonal skills necessary for success in the legal profession. As part of the broader Chapman University network, the Black Law Student Association connects students with alumni, faculty mentors, and community partners, creating a comprehensive support system that extends beyond the classroom and into the professional legal community.
Based at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, CA, the Black Law Students Association represents an essential community within the law school, dedicated to supporting Black students as they pursue their legal education and professional aspirations. This student-led organization recognizes the unique experiences and perspectives that Black law students bring to the legal profession, creating a supportive network that fosters belonging and mutual growth. Members of the association benefit from peer mentorship, professional development opportunities, and connections with legal practitioners and leaders who share their commitment to justice and equity. The association's work complements Santa Clara Law's institutional values, which emphasize developing lawyers who excel with integrity and passion for justice. By bringing together students with shared experiences and goals, the organization builds community while addressing the distinctive challenges and opportunities that Black students encounter in legal education. The association provides a space for dialogue, advocacy, and collaboration on issues affecting their communities and the legal profession. Through events, professional networking, and support systems, the SCU Black Law Students Association empowers members to thrive academically and professionally. The organization embodies Santa Clara University's broader commitment to inclusive education and social justice, recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen the legal profession and enhance its capacity to serve all communities equitably and effectively.
The Black Law Students Association at the University of San Diego represents a meaningful community of students committed to supporting one another and advancing diversity within the legal profession. Located in San Diego, CA, this student organization embodies the university's core values of compassion, ethics, and leadership development through its inclusive and welcoming approach to legal education.
At its heart, the USD Black Law Students Association creates a safe and empowering space where Black law students can build lasting friendships, share experiences, and celebrate their identities as future legal professionals. The organization recognizes that community and connection are essential components of a fulfilling law school experience, particularly for students navigating the legal field from underrepresented backgrounds.
Serving the San Diego community and the broader legal profession, the association is dedicated to fostering mentorship relationships between students and established attorneys. These connections help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world legal practice, while also promoting visibility and representation in the legal community.
The organization's commitment extends beyond individual member support to include advocacy for systemic change within legal education and the profession. By promoting dialogue about diversity, equity, and inclusion, the USD Black Law Students Association contributes to the University of San Diego's mission of preparing compassionate leaders who are committed to ethical practice and social justice.
Through collaborative programming, community service, and mutual support, members of the Black Law Students Association in San Diego develop not only as legal scholars but also as advocates for positive change within their profession and communities.
The Black Law Students Association (BLSA) is a vital student organization at Loyola Marymount University's law school, rooted in the Los Angeles community and dedicated to supporting Black students throughout their legal education journey. As a membership-driven organization, BLSA creates a welcoming space where Black law students can find mentorship, friendship, and professional guidance from peers and alumni who understand their unique experiences in legal education.
At its core, BLSA operates from a mission of solidarity and mutual support. The organization recognizes that Black law students often navigate distinctive challenges within legal academia and the profession, and BLSA responds by building strong community bonds that foster resilience and success. Members benefit from peer support networks, study groups, and collaborative learning environments that celebrate their contributions to the legal field.
BLSA's commitment extends to amplifying the voices and concerns of Black communities and other marginalized populations. The organization educates its members about national and international issues affecting people of color, encouraging law students to become informed advocates and change-makers. This awareness-building is integral to BLSA's vision of developing lawyers who are not only academically excellent but also deeply committed to social justice.
Serving the Los Angeles area, BLSA maintains strong connections with Black law graduates and the broader legal community, creating pathways for mentorship and professional development that extend well beyond law school. The organization understands that success means more than academic achievement—it means building meaningful relationships, developing leadership skills, and contributing positively to the profession and society. Through these interconnected efforts, BLSA at Loyola Marymount University empowers Black law students to realize their full potential.
Women of Color Collective at UC Law SF is a student organization rooted in the commitment to diversity and community that defines UC Law San Francisco, located in San Francisco, CA. Established within one of the nation's oldest law schools—founded in 1878 as the first law school of the University of California system—the collective carries forward a 150-year legacy of placing legal education in the heart of where law is practiced.
The organization brings together women of color law students in a shared space of belonging and mutual support. Unlike traditional academic settings, the Women of Color Collective recognizes that meaningful legal education extends beyond the classroom. It creates opportunities for students to build relationships with peers who share similar backgrounds and experiences, fostering a sense of community that sustains students throughout their legal education journey.
As an affinity group at UC Law SF, the Women of Color Collective embodies the school's core values of inclusion and equity. The organization is open to all students, reflecting UC Law SF's belief that diverse perspectives strengthen the entire law school community. Members benefit from mentorship networks, professional development events, and social gatherings that connect them with accomplished women of color in the legal profession.
UC Law SF's recent transformation—including its name change from UC Hastings and the opening of its new state-of-the-art campus at 333 Golden Gate Avenue—represents the institution's commitment to building an extraordinary future for legal education. The Women of Color Collective participates in this evolution, ensuring that women of color have visibility, voice, and leadership opportunities within the law school. Through the collective's work, students are empowered to pursue their legal careers with confidence and community support rooted in San Francisco's vibrant legal landscape.
The UC Law SF Black Law Students Association represents a vital affinity organization within the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco community, established to serve Black law students with intentional support, professional guidance, and community connection. As part of UC Law SF's comprehensive approach to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, BLSA embodies the law school's core commitment to ensuring that students from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives to legal education and practice.
Founded on principles of unity, professional excellence, and social justice, the Black Law Students Association at UC Law SF works to create meaningful change both within the law school and in the broader legal system. The organization recognizes that Black law students bring invaluable viewpoints and experiences to legal education, and it provides a supportive community where members can develop their professional identities, build lasting relationships, and prepare for successful careers in law. BLSA actively engages with the San Francisco, CA legal community, facilitating connections between students and established legal professionals of color who can serve as mentors and role models.
The association's mission extends beyond individual student success to encompass systemic advocacy and community impact. By articulating the needs of Black law students and advocating for meaningful legal system reform, BLSA contributes to UC Law SF's vision of developing lawyers and leaders who will shape the future of the legal profession. Operating within a law school that has been training legal professionals since 1878, BLSA honors the institution's legacy while advancing its commitment to preparing diverse, equitable, and inclusive generations of attorneys prepared to serve all communities with integrity and justice.
Students of Color and Allies Policy Forum represents a vibrant student-led initiative at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to empowering the next generation of changemakers. At its core, the organization operates with a clear mission: to facilitate constructive discussions and learning centered on policies that shape the lives and futures of BIPOC communities. This Los Angeles-based forum serves as a welcoming space where students of color and allies come together with shared purpose and commitment.
Founded on principles of community engagement and collective empowerment, the organization recognizes that meaningful change begins with informed conversation and solidarity. The forum creates intentional spaces where diverse perspectives are valued, complex policy issues are examined thoughtfully, and participants are encouraged to envision their roles in creating systemic change. By centering the voices and experiences of students from marginalized communities, the organization builds a foundation of mutual support and shared learning.
The organization's commitment extends beyond campus discussions to real-world impact. By connecting students with professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, Students of Color and Allies Policy Forum helps bridge the gap between academic understanding and practical advocacy. Operating within the USC community in Los Angeles, the forum demonstrates that student-led initiatives can catalyze important conversations while fostering the next wave of leaders committed to equity, justice, and meaningful policy reform across all sectors.
At the heart of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA, the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS) serves as a transformative community for students of color pursuing careers in architecture and design. This student-led organization embodies a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and mutual support within the architectural profession, creating spaces where minority voices are centered and celebrated.
NOMAS recognizes the unique challenges and opportunities facing minority students in architecture and builds community through shared experiences and collaborative learning. The organization creates meaningful connections among its members while also bridging relationships between students and practicing architects, educators, and industry leaders who can mentor and inspire the next generation of diverse architectural talent.
Through its events, projects, and initiatives, NOMAS cultivates a culture of excellence and belonging. Members engage in creative projects that showcase their talents while building portfolios and professional networks. The organization's emphasis on both individual growth and collective advancement reflects its core belief that strengthening minority representation in architecture benefits the entire profession and the communities it serves.
Based in Los Angeles—a city renowned for its dynamic architecture and design culture—NOMAS members draw inspiration from their vibrant surroundings while contributing their own innovative perspectives. The organization's commitment to supporting its members extends to fostering financial sustainability through community contributions and donations, ensuring that NOMAS can continue its vital mission of empowering minority architecture students and creating pathways to success in the built environment professions.
Rooted in the mission of the National Association of Black Journalists, the USC chapter serves the Los Angeles, California community as a vital student organization dedicated to advancing Black representation in journalism and media. NABJ USC represents a community of passionate undergraduate and graduate students, accomplished alumni, and experienced media professionals united by a shared commitment to excellence and advocacy. This organization recognizes the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces where Black journalists can develop their skills, share experiences, and build lasting professional relationships.
At its core, NABJ USC champions the voices and contributions of Black journalists in Southern California and beyond. The organization provides essential support to student journalists navigating the complexities of media careers while advocating on behalf of Black journalists facing systemic barriers in the industry. By fostering community among members and connecting students with mentors and professionals, NABJ USC creates pathways for meaningful engagement and career development.
The chapter's presence at the University of Southern California reflects a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion in higher education and professional journalism. Members of NABJ USC benefit from a strong network of peers and mentors who understand the unique challenges and opportunities available to Black journalists. Through collaborative programming and advocacy initiatives, NABJ USC works to ensure that Black journalists have the resources, representation, and recognition they deserve in the media landscape. The organization stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in creating change and opportunity within the journalism profession.
The Pan African Student Association at the University of Southern California represents a vibrant community of students united by their connection to Pan-African identities, experiences, and heritage. Located in Los Angeles, CA, PASA has established itself as an inclusive and welcoming organization that honors the diversity within the African and African Diaspora communities on campus.
At its core, PASA's mission is to build a thriving community where students interested in the Pan-African experience can engage in authentic, meaningful interactions. The organization recognizes that the Pan-African community encompasses a wide spectrum of identities and backgrounds—from students born and raised in Africa to those whose families trace roots to the continent and beyond. This inclusive approach ensures that every student who identifies with an African narrative finds belonging and representation within PASA's community.
The organization's commitment extends beyond social gatherings to genuine educational and cultural enrichment. By hosting events like movie nights featuring films that explore African narratives and cultural movements, PASA creates spaces for dialogue and reflection. Through initiatives like the "My Mother Tongue" language series, the organization actively supports students in connecting with their heritage languages and learning new ones, strengthening cultural ties and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
PASA's presence at USC reflects a dedication to amplifying African and diaspora voices on campus while creating a supportive network for students navigating their identities and experiences. As a student-led organization in Los Angeles, PASA embodies the values of representation, celebration, and community solidarity that define its mission and vision for the Pan-African student experience.
At The Ward Firm, our founding attorney, Justin L. Ward, pledges that we will provide aggressive, quality legal representation to each personal injury or criminal defense case that we handle. You may have questions about what this means for you and your case, so we wanted to take a moment to provide you with some information about our philosophy here at the firm.
We believe that each client should get the personal attention of an experienced attorney. Justin will meet with you in your initial consultation. You will have the opportunity to talk about your case and what is most important to you. Justin will work with you to help you develop a strategy that recovers maximum compensation or helps you limit the consequences of a criminal conviction.
Justin has seen both sides of personal injury and criminal defense cases. He handled personal injury cases while working for an insurance defense firm and is a former prosecutor. This experience has provided him extensive knowledge into the way these cases are approached by the other side. He will use this information to prepare a strong case that helps you achieve your goals.
Keith J. Staten is from Vallejo, CA. He received two AA degrees from Solano Community College and a BS from San Francisco State University. He attended UOP McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento graduating in 1992. His Criminal Defense firm specializes in handling complex criminal litigation, DUI litigation, and DMV administrative licensing issues. After serving at the Sacramento County Public Defender’s office from 1991 to 1994, he went into private practice focusing on criminal defense. From 2001 to 2007, he was a Senior Staff Counsel for the Department of Motor Vehicles. In 2007, he returned to private practice, specializing in complex criminal trials. In 2012, he was named Attorney of the year by the Sacramento County Indigent Criminal Defense Panel for his outstanding case resolutions, which included two jury acquittals on life-offense cases. In 2014 The Hub Magazine in Sacramento recognized him as a leader in the community. In 2014, the Wiley Manuel Bar Association named him attorney of the year. In 2015 he received the “Judge James Long” Community Service award from the Kappa Fraternity’s Roseville Alumni Association. He was recently recognized as a Social Justice Warrior by The National Lawyer’s Guild in 2020.
Mr. Staten is an expert in DUI matters, both from the criminal justice side and the DMV administrative side. He also is known for his successful verdicts in drug and sex cases.
Mr. Staten helped create new case law in the “Facebook” case. In that case, a juror had “friended” other jurors on the social networking site and regularly posted commentary on the trial during that trial. Mr. Staten successfully argued at both the trial and appellate level that his client’s right to a fair trial trumped that juror’s privacy rights, and won a motion for a new trial.
Further, in the case of a fatal shooting at a Sacramento IHOP, Mr. Staten won an acquittal for his client when his frame-by-frame analysis of surveillance video clearly revealed his client acted as a peacemaker, and had left the restaurant before the fight escalated to the shooting.
Mr. Staten mentors high school, college and law students, and from 2015 to 2017, taught paralegal students in the UC Davis Extension Program. Since 2019, he has been an Adjunct Professor at American River College teaching Criminal Law, and Evidence. He assists in running Criminal Expungement clinics held at ARC on Saturdays during the school year. He frequently lectures in the community and performs a “Know Your Rights” educational program which has been featured on radio, and live lectures. He currently serves on the boards of Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep High School, and is a member of many local bar associations including the Sacramento County Bar Association.
Wells-Gibson Family Law can help you make your best-case scenario a reality. Family law matters sit at the core of your life and deeply impact your ability to experience peace, contentment, purpose, and joy - on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime. We're armed with a depth of diverse knowledge and experience, a keen attention to critical details, and creative thinking that has immensely benefited our clients in ways they didn't know possible. My firm goes above and beyond to holistically understand your needs and desires, and we passionately do everything in our power to help you attain the outcome you deserve. Family law consists of divorce, custody battles, support issues, and property division. We also do prenuptial agreements and estate planning. Estate planning consists of wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and power of attorneys.
The Cal Poly Black Alumni Community is coming together on Saturday, Feb. 28, starting at 5 p.m. for our final Black History Month event with a special pregame mixer at Dirty Birds La Jolla (9500 Gilman Dr Price Center #1420, San Diego, CA 92093).
Bust out your green and gold and mix and mingle with fellow alumni during this casual reception. Guests also have the chance to meet volunteer leaders from the Cal Poly Black Alumni Community. Don't forget to pick up some swag before the Cal Poly men’s basketball game against UC San Diego!
After the social, head over to LionTree Arena (9860 Hopkins Dr, San Diego, CA 92093) to cheer on the Mustangs as they face the Tritons. The community is ready to show up and show out for the team!
Here's how ticketing works:
5-6:30 p.m., Pre-game Alumni Mixer: Guests interested in attending the pre-game gathering can register here on Eventbrite. The event is FREE to attend. Food and beverages are available for purchase. We ask that you RSVP by Monday, Feb. 23 so we have an accurate count for swag. This all-ages event is open to all Cal Poly alumni and supporters.
7 p.m., Cal Poly vs. UC San Diego Men's Basketball Game: Tickets must be purchased directly from the host university. Visit the UC San Diego Athletics site to purchase tickets. We are encouraging folks to select tickets in sections 110 ($15+). This event is open to all alumni and the Cal Poly community.
We'll see you soon!
The Cal Poly Black Alumni Community is coming together on Saturday, Feb. 28, starting at 5 p.m. for our final Black History Month event with a special pregame mixer at Dirty Birds La Jolla (9500 Gilman Dr Price Center #1420, San Diego, CA 92093).
Bust out your green and gold and mix and mingle with fellow alumni during this casual reception. Guests also have the chance to meet volunteer leaders from the Cal Poly Black Alumni Community. Don't forget to pick up some swag before the Cal Poly men’s basketball game against UC San Diego!
After the social, head over to LionTree Arena (9860 Hopkins Dr, San Diego, CA 92093) to cheer on the Mustangs as they face the Tritons. The community is ready to show up and show out for the team!
Here's how ticketing works:
5-6:30 p.m., Pre-game Alumni Mixer: Guests interested in attending the pre-game gathering can register here on Eventbrite. The event is FREE to attend. Food and beverages are available for purchase. We ask that you RSVP by Monday, Feb. 23 so we have an accurate count for swag. This all-ages event is open to all Cal Poly alumni and supporters.
7 p.m., Cal Poly vs. UC San Diego Men's Basketball Game: Tickets must be purchased directly from the host university. Visit the UC San Diego Athletics site to purchase tickets. We are encouraging folks to select tickets in sections 110 ($15+). This event is open to all alumni and the Cal Poly community.
We'll see you soon!
Let’s sprinkle a little magic together! 🏰👑
Join Black Women Adventures & Black Girl Social Club San Diego for a full day of joy, laughs, rides, photos and pure Disney vibes. Come when you want, leave when you want — this day is all about fun and freedom! 💫
✔️ RSVP with a T-shirt purchase — $25 (We’ll match for our group photo! 😍)
OR
✔️ RSVP for FREE without the shirt
👉 Everyone is responsible for purchasing their own Disneyland admission.
Lightning Pass is encouraged but not required.
📸 GROUP PHOTO!
📍 In front of the Castle
🕛 12:00 PM Noon — wearing our shirts! Don’t miss the moment! 📷✨
IMPORTANT NOTES
🌀 Come & go on your own schedule — no stress 💛 Bring comfy shoes 🎢 Ride what you love 🧘🏾♀️ Be magical, be yourself