Since its founding in the late 1960s as La Raza de Loyola, the Latinx Law Students Association has been a cornerstone of community advocacy and student support at Loyola Marymount University School of Law in Los Angeles, California. The organization's 2022 name change to LLSA reflects its evolution and commitment to accurately representing the diverse Latinx community it serves.
At its core, LLSA exists to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change within the Los Angeles legal profession and broader community. The association fundamentally believes that the legal system needs more lawyers who understand and are committed to serving Latinx populations. By fostering a supportive community among Latinx law students, LLSA ensures that no student navigates their legal education alone, providing peer mentorship, academic guidance, and emotional support throughout their law school journey.
The organization's cultural identity is central to its mission. Raza Grad stands as a testament to LLSA's dedication to celebrating student achievements while honoring cultural traditions and heritage. This unique graduation ceremony infuses academic milestones with the rich traditions of Latinx culture, creating memorable celebrations that recognize the whole person, not just the legal professional.
Rooted in the vibrant Pico Union neighborhood of Los Angeles, LLSA maintains authentic connections to the communities it serves. The organization actively advocates for educational equity and social justice, addressing systemic issues that affect Latinx students and families. Through speaking events, community engagement, and sustained advocacy, LLSA works to ensure that legal education translates into meaningful service and representation for the Latinx community both in Los Angeles and beyond.
Los Angeles, CA