Professional According to Whom?

On June 17, 2022, the VWAA hosted a luncheon panel exploring expectations for women’s appearance and attire in the courtroom and the law firm. Our moderator Shemeka C. Hankins brought together Justice Cleo E. Powell, Judge Linda Bryant, Judge Roxie O. Holder, and Judge Tameeka Montgomery Williams to share their observations and personal experiences to touch on issues of implicit bias, discrimination, and the intersection of race, gender, and cultural norms. The topic was researched by VWAA Annual Meeting Chair, Elizabeth Ross, and part of the VWAA’s contribution to the VSB Conference in Virginia Beach.  The panel was open to both VWAA members and non-members in-person and through Zoom.