Explore businesses and organizations from diverse cultural communities in Albany, NY. Find law firms, medical practices, restaurants, retail stores, nonprofits, and community organizations owned by or serving multicultural populations. Connect with establishments that bring global perspectives and celebrate cultural diversity in their services.
Albany Law Women's Rugby Club is a student organization at Albany Law School in Albany, NY, bringing together female law students who share a passion for rugby and community building. As part of Albany Law School's vibrant student life, the club embodies the school's values of leadership development, personal growth, and fostering meaningful relationships among its diverse student body. The organization provides a unique opportunity for women in law to balance their rigorous academic responsibilities with athletic pursuits and social connection.
Founded in 1851, Albany Law School has a distinguished legacy of educating tomorrow's leaders, engaged professionals, and committed public servants. The school's mission to educate and empower students extends beyond traditional classroom instruction to include robust student organizations like the Women's Rugby Club. These organizations are essential to creating a supportive community where law students can develop confidence, resilience, and the interpersonal connections that sustain them throughout their careers.
Located in Albany, New York's capital, the Women's Rugby Club benefits from the school's collaborative environment and strong sense of community. The club serves as a gathering place for female law students who value teamwork, mutual support, and athletic achievement. Through regular practices, competitions, and social events, members build lasting friendships and develop a network of peers who will become colleagues in the legal profession.
The Women's Rugby Club represents the human side of legal education at Albany Law School—the friendships, shared experiences, and personal growth that occur outside the classroom but are equally important to student success. By participating in the club, women law students in Albany, NY gain not only athletic fulfillment but also the strong peer relationships and sense of belonging that characterize a thriving law school community.
The Women's Law Caucus represents a cornerstone of student life at Albany Law School, one of America's most prestigious legal institutions located in Albany, New York's capital. This student-led organization embodies the law school's foundational commitment to justice, ethical values, and community service by creating an inclusive space where women law students can explore their professional identities and advocate for gender equality. Founded within an institution that has educated influential leaders—from U.S. Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson to current federal judges and government officials—the Women's Law Caucus carries forward Albany Law's 170-year tradition of preparing committed public servants and inspired change-agents. The caucus serves the Albany, NY community by cultivating future female attorneys who understand the intersection of law and social justice. Members benefit from the intimate, collaborative environment that defines Albany Law School, where small class sizes and experienced faculty create meaningful mentorship opportunities. The organization connects students with accomplished women in the legal profession, fostering relationships that extend beyond the classroom into government, law firms, and public service sectors. By engaging with Albany Law's broader network of alumni and supporters—which includes prominent judges, general counsels, and partners in leading law firms—the Women's Law Caucus ensures that its members develop sophisticated understanding of legal doctrine while maintaining deep commitment to ethical practice. The caucus also aligns with the law school's emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement, including initiatives like the newly launched Housing Justice Clinic. Through its work, the Women's Law Caucus honors Albany Law School's legacy of empowering women in law while preparing its members to make meaningful contributions to the profession and society.
OUTLaw represents the commitment of Albany Law School in Albany, NY to creating an inclusive educational environment where all students can succeed. Founded in 1851, Albany Law School has a distinguished legacy of preparing leaders for the legal profession and public service, with alumni including the 25th President of the United States and multiple New York Court of Appeals judges. OUTLaw embodies the school's core values of justice, ethical practice, and community engagement by providing a supportive community for LGBTQ+ law students and their allies. The organization operates within a law school that prioritizes experiential learning and real-world connection, reflected in initiatives like the Housing Justice Clinic and extensive clinical programs that serve the Albany community. Located on a 54-acre campus shared with three other colleges in Albany's historic capital district, OUTLaw members benefit from the school's unique position bridging academic excellence with practical engagement in government, law, and policy. Albany Law School's 93% employment rate within ten months of graduation demonstrates the school's strong professional networks and commitment to student success. OUTLaw students participate in a community that values diversity and belonging, supported by dedicated offices focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The organization reflects Albany Law's broader mission to connect the classroom to the profession and inspire community change-agents and creative problem solvers. By fostering meaningful connections among LGBTQ+ students and the wider legal community, OUTLaw contributes to Albany Law's vision of educating professionals who are committed to justice, ethical values, and positive social impact.
Located in Albany, NY, the Muslim Law Students Association at Albany Law School represents a community-centered student organization dedicated to supporting Muslim law students throughout their academic journey. This organization recognizes the unique perspectives and experiences that Muslim students bring to legal education and provides a welcoming space for professional and personal growth.
The association operates within Albany Law School's collaborative environment, which emphasizes connection to the profession, government, and the broader community. By bringing together students who share cultural and religious values, the organization strengthens the social fabric of the law school while promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding among the student body. Members find mentorship, friendship, and professional support from fellow students navigating similar experiences in legal education.
As part of Albany Law's broader commitment to developing ethical leaders and engaged professionals, the Muslim Law Students Association contributes to the school's mission of inspiring community change-agents and creative problem solvers. The organization leverages the school's location in New York's capital city, providing students with unique opportunities to engage with government, legal institutions, and public service organizations that shape policy and justice.
The association reflects Albany Law School's values of diversity and inclusion, recognizing that tomorrow's legal leaders come from varied backgrounds and communities. By fostering meaningful relationships among Muslim law students in Albany, NY, the organization supports not only academic success but also the development of lawyers who will serve their communities with integrity and commitment to justice. The Muslim Law Students Association stands as a testament to the school's dedication to educating the whole person and preparing students for meaningful careers in law.
Founded in 1851, Albany Law School stands as the nation's oldest independent law school, and the Latin American Law Students Association represents the school's commitment to fostering inclusive community and diverse perspectives within its student body. Located in Albany, NY, this student organization brings together law students united by their interest in Latin American legal systems, cultures, and international legal practice. The association embodies Albany Law School's core mission to educate and empower tomorrow's leaders, engaged professionals, committed public servants, and creative problem solvers who are dedicated to inspiring community change and advancing justice. Members of the Latin American Law Students Association benefit from their connection to a law school that emphasizes ethical values, sophisticated legal understanding, and professional competency development. The school's collaborative relationship with the University at Albany enriches student experiences through interdisciplinary perspectives and combined degree programs, allowing law students to pursue advanced study in areas such as public administration, social work, and criminal justice. Albany Law's distinguished alumni include U.S. Supreme Court justices, federal judges, governors, and leaders across government and the private sector, creating a legacy of excellence and service. The association provides a supportive community where students can explore their professional interests, build meaningful relationships with peers who share their values, and engage with faculty and mentors committed to their success. Through the Latin American Law Students Association, members at Albany Law School in Albany, NY develop not only legal expertise but also a profound commitment to serving their communities and advancing justice across borders. The organization reflects the school's dedication to connecting students with real-world learning opportunities and fostering a culture of inclusive excellence.
The Black Law Students Association at Albany Law School represents an important community of scholars and future legal professionals dedicated to advancing justice and serving communities throughout Albany, NY and beyond. Rooted in Albany Law's 174-year history of legal education excellence, this student organization embodies the school's mission to educate and empower leaders committed to creating meaningful change in society.
Albany Law School, founded in 1851, holds the distinction of being the nation's oldest independent law school. The institution has produced influential alumni including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack, and numerous state judges and legal leaders. This legacy of producing accomplished professionals who contribute to government, public service, and community leadership continues through organizations like the Black Law Students Association.
The association provides essential support, mentorship, and community building for Black law students navigating legal education and professional development. Members benefit from Albany Law's comprehensive commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as innovative experiential learning opportunities designed to connect students directly with real-world legal practice. The school's location in Albany, New York's capital, provides unique access to state courts, government agencies, and legal institutions where students can engage in meaningful work addressing housing justice, criminal law, and other pressing community needs.
Through the Black Law Students Association, students develop not only sophisticated understanding of legal policy and doctrine but also the professional competencies and ethical commitment that define the Albany Law experience. The organization reflects the school's broader vision of cultivating creative problem-solvers and change-agents who will shape the future of law and justice.
Founded in 1978, the Capital District Women's Bar Association (CDWBA) has grown from an informal gathering of women lawyers into a robust organization of over 350 members serving Albany, New York and the surrounding region. What began as a grassroots community evolved into a formal chapter of the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York, becoming one of five founding chapters when the statewide organization was established. Today, CDWBA is part of a statewide network comprising 17 chapters with more than 3,500 members spanning from Suffolk County to Buffalo. The organization's 45-year history reflects a commitment to supporting women in the legal profession through professional development, mentorship, and community building. CDWBA's membership encompasses judges, private practitioners, government attorneys, court officials, in-house counsel, and law students—each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the association. The organization extends membership to Friends of the Association, including paralegals and other legal professionals, demonstrating its inclusive vision of the legal community. With active committees addressing legislative advocacy, criminal law, matrimonial practice, gender bias issues, real property, and tax law, CDWBA serves as both a professional resource and a catalyst for systemic change. The association's influence extends beyond Albany's borders, with visibility on the federal level through amicus participation in landmark Supreme Court cases. Through signature events, networking opportunities, and mentorship initiatives, CDWBA continues building upon its founding mission of empowering and supporting women in the legal profession.
Since its founding in 1974, the Coalition of Labor Union Women has established itself as America's only national organization exclusively dedicated to union women, and the Kate Mullany chapter in Albany, NY carries forward this important mission. CLUW was born from a commitment to unify union women and address the unique challenges they face within the labor movement and broader society. The organization operates on four core founding objectives: empowering women for greater participation at all levels in labor leadership, organizing unorganized workers, promoting affirmative action and social and economic justice, and increasing women's involvement in political and legislative advocacy. In Albany and beyond, CLUW members advocate passionately for equal pay, workplace safety, affordable healthcare, job protection, and freedom from harassment and violence. What makes CLUW distinctive is its deep roots in the labor movement combined with its laser focus on women's experiences and needs. The organization recognizes that union women face intersecting challenges and works collaboratively with members to develop solutions grounded in labor solidarity and feminist principles. By bringing together women from diverse unions and industries across Albany, NY and the nation, CLUW creates a powerful collective voice. Members participate in a vibrant community of activists, organizers, and leaders who share a commitment to economic justice and workplace dignity for all women.
For over five decades, the Pride Center of the Capital Region has served as a cornerstone of safety, dignity, and empowerment for LGBTQ individuals and allies throughout Albany and the surrounding ten-county region. Founded in 1970, the Pride Center holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ community center in the country, a legacy rooted in its unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive communities where people feel secure and affirmed in all aspects of their lives. The organization's mission centers on promoting the wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer-identified people, as well as those affected by discrimination based on gender identity and expression. Beyond service provision, the Pride Center actively advocates for equality and justice while celebrating the cultural, ethnic, and racial diversity of the Capital Region. The organization's vision reflects a deep investment in making Albany and surrounding communities places where LGBTQ people don't just survive, but thrive. Operating with fiscal responsibility and integrity, the Pride Center sustains an inclusive environment characterized by compassion, dignity, and sensitivity. This Albany-based institution remains an integrated part of the social fabric it serves, continuously adapting to meet evolving community needs while drawing strength from the individuals and families whose lives have been transformed through its programs and advocacy work.
In Our Own Voices, Inc. represents a vital community-centered organization serving Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People of Color in Albany, NY and the surrounding region. Founded on a mission to ensure the survival and growth of LGBTQ BIPOC communities, the organization embodies a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering meaningful connections within the community. The team works collaboratively with a dedicated network of staff and volunteers who share a vision of setting the standard for national LGBTQ BIPOC organizations. At its core, In Our Own Voices seeks to develop leadership among community members, strengthen their capacity to communicate perspectives effectively, and build collective power against systemic oppression. The organization's values—communication, honesty, integrity, service to others, responsibility, and quality—guide every interaction and initiative. By creating safe spaces for gathering, celebration, and mutual support, In Our Own Voices honors the experiences and contributions of LGBTQ communities of color. The organization recognizes that true wellness encompasses physical, mental, spiritual, political, cultural, and economic dimensions, and structures its work accordingly. Whether through community events, support services, or volunteer opportunities, In Our Own Voices invites individuals and allies to participate in building a stronger, more resilient community rooted in authenticity and collective care.
Ryan Forbes is a litigation attorney with a practice focusing on criminal defense, governmental investigations, and civil rights claims. During his career, Ryan has investigated and defended felony matters, represented clients in several trials to verdict, drafted and researched related motions and appeals.
Ryan has represented clients under Government investigations by agencies such as the United States Attorney’s Office, State Attorney General’s office, and Homeland Security. He also commits significant time to pro bono matters, including representing non-profit organizations in civil litigation and representing plaintiffs in § 1983 civil rights cases.
While in law school, Ryan served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Judge Richard Rivera, Supervising Family Court Judge, Third Judicial District, Albany County Family Court, and Acting Supreme Court Justice, Third Judicial District. While there, he primarily worked with family offenses and juvenile delinquency cases, as well as Title 9 prisoners’ rights cases. His academic tenure included working with Prisoners Legal Services of New York and The Legal Aid Society, where he drafted motions for conventions against torture and stay of deportation. Ryan has also worked with the Albany County Community Police Review Board to create a disciplinary matrix for police misconduct violations committed by officers.
Ryan earned his J.D. from Albany Law School with a Certificate in Criminal Law with Honors. He was a member of the Albany Law Moot Court Travel Team, where he participated in the Dean Jerome Price Memorial Evidence Competition and the Billings, Exum & Frye National Moot Court Competition. He received his undergraduate degree from Towson University where he majored in Philosophy, Law and Politics. During his time at Towson University, Ryan completed an internship with the Public Justice Center of Washington D.C. assisting with tenants’ rights claims. He also served as the Community Outreach Chair for the Black Student Union, overseeing the coordination of over 300 community service hours for the organization. This involved building a community garden and mentoring high school students through the College Readiness Outreach Program.
Ryan Forbes is a litigation attorney with a practice focusing on criminal defense, governmental investigations, and civil rights claims. During his career, Ryan has investigated and defended felony matters, represented clients in several trials to verdict, drafted and researched related motions and appeals.
Ryan has represented clients under Government investigations by agencies such as the United States Attorney’s Office, State Attorney General’s office, and Homeland Security. He also commits significant time to pro bono matters, including representing non-profit organizations in civil litigation and representing plaintiffs in § 1983 civil rights cases.
While in law school, Ryan served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Judge Richard Rivera, Supervising Family Court Judge, Third Judicial District, Albany County Family Court, and Acting Supreme Court Justice, Third Judicial District. While there, he primarily worked with family offenses and juvenile delinquency cases, as well as Title 9 prisoners’ rights cases. His academic tenure included working with Prisoners Legal Services of New York and The Legal Aid Society, where he drafted motions for conventions against torture and stay of deportation. Ryan has also worked with the Albany County Community Police Review Board to create a disciplinary matrix for police misconduct violations committed by officers.
Ryan earned his J.D. from Albany Law School with a Certificate in Criminal Law with Honors. He was a member of the Albany Law Moot Court Travel Team, where he participated in the Dean Jerome Price Memorial Evidence Competition and the Billings, Exum & Frye National Moot Court Competition. He received his undergraduate degree from Towson University where he majored in Philosophy, Law and Politics. During his time at Towson University, Ryan completed an internship with the Public Justice Center of Washington D.C. assisting with tenants’ rights claims. He also served as the Community Outreach Chair for the Black Student Union, overseeing the coordination of over 300 community service hours for the organization. This involved building a community garden and mentoring high school students through the College Readiness Outreach Program.
In an ever changing business and legal landscape, Joseph F. Jacob’s law practice provides clients with a broad range of legal services with emphasis on:
Commercial & Corporate Transactions
Corporate Law; International Business Transactions; Healthcare Law & Professional Service Agreements; Alternative Dispute Resolutions & Mediation throughout the Arab Region.
Parents are encouraged to help their child research a black historical figure and stand proudly beside them during their presentation.
This is a free event, let this day be our community day, a time to unite, learn, and celebrate together through Food, Fun, and Education hosted by Sister to Sister Awakening Inc. and Women on the Move.
Get ready for the 7th Annual CNYS BLACK EXPO happening at the Empire State Plaza from 11 AM to 4 PM!
🎉 Join us for an exciting day filled with:
- Diverse Black vendors (ALL VENDORS ARE WELCOME)
- A local food marketplace
- An Albany Job Fair
-Local Talent & Dancing
- A dedicated kids' area, and much more!
✨ Admission is FREE for everyone!
Attention vendors: This is a fantastic opportunity to present your business and showcase your products to a large audience. Don't let this chance slip away to participate in one of the premier events in the Capital District, drawing vendors from across the nation!
📅 **Secure your booth now!**
Join the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce on Friday, October 25th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for Last Friday, our monthly networking mixer! This is your chance to unwind, enjoy light bites and drinks, and engage with fellow professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across the Capital Region. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting your journey, this event provides the perfect environment to foster new relationships, share ideas, and collaborate on future opportunities.
Last Friday is more than just a networking event—it's a celebration of community and connection. Take advantage of this relaxed setting to exchange insights, explore potential partnerships, and expand your circle of influence.
End your month on a positive note by joining us for an evening filled with engaging conversations and valuable opportunities. Let's come together to grow, collaborate, and build a stronger business community!