On November 15, 2025, Executive Director Dawn Blagrove joined Black women attorneys from across North Carolina for Rooted and Radiant: The Wonder of Us—a powerful gathering in Raleigh celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and collective strength of Black women in law.
Designed as both a celebration and a moment of restoration, the event centered on community, reflection, and the transformative contributions of Black women shaping justice.
The program featured a keynote address by Judge Glenda Hatchett, the trailblazing jurist, author, and nationally recognized figure from the Judge Hatchett series. As the first African American Chief Presiding Judge of Fulton County’s Juvenile Court, Judge Hatchett has long championed women in the legal profession and inspired generations of attorneys.
Dawn participated in a panel discussion reflecting on identity, power, and rest within the legal field. Key takeaways from her remarks included:
- “Black women are the blueprint for everything.” Dawn reminded attendees never to let the world diminish their brilliance, leadership, or cultural impact.
- “Radical rest is essential—and deeper than convenience.” She explained that true restoration takes time—at least three days to disconnect, followed by several days of quiet reflection—to reach genuine renewal.
The gathering was both a celebration and a reminder: Black women in law hold extraordinary power and wisdom, and they deserve spaces that honor their work while nurturing their well-being.
Emancipate NC is proud to uplift this vital community and the transformative leadership of Black women across the legal profession.