At the New Jersey State Bar Association (NJSBA) Board of Trustees meeting in May, the board approved a resolution condemning and denouncing acts of bias against Asian Americans in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Citing recent examples of hate speech and violence, and an alarming surge in reported anti-Asian incidents, the resolution states that the NJSBA "stands steadfast in opposition to xenophobia and discrimination of any kind," and joins with colleagues around the country — including the Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey — in calls for unity and support.
The board also welcomed Christine A. Amalfe as the new secretary on the Executive Board, as well as six new trustees: G. Glennon Troublefield (Essex), Brian J. Neary (Hudson), Michael R. Paglione (Mercer), Joseph L. Linares (at-large), James A. Lewis (section/committee), and Emily S. Kelchen (Young Lawyers Division).
NJSBA 2018-2019 President John E. Keefe Jr. said farewell to his colleagues and noted that he feels confident in the relevance of the Association going forward.
"It has been an extraordinary ride. This experience has made me a better person; it has made me probably a better lawyer. I have learned immeasurably from the people around me. It humbles me to think about what the lawyers of New Jersey do every day," he said.
Keefe ended his remarks as he ended every speech and public remark during his tenure, encouraging board members to "do good and do well."