President’s Message
Dear Esteemed Members, Friends, and Supporters of the Prestigious Paul C. Perkins Bar Association,
It is with deep gratitude and unwavering purpose that I step into the role of President of the Paul C. Perkins Bar Association. I do so propelled by the legacy of those who came before me—visionaries, advocates, and legal pioneers who transformed struggle into strength and believed deeply in the power of unity and collective purpose.
Founded in 1981, our association was not created out of formality—it was born out of necessity. It was named in honor of Paul C. Perkins, Sr., a civil rights attorney who stood courageously during some of our nation’s most challenging times. His work as co-counsel on the historic Groveland Four case and his role as Orlando’s first Black City Prosecutor paved the way for countless attorneys of color in Central Florida. His legacy lives on in each of us who choose to speak up, show up, and serve with purpose.
This year, our theme is “Magnifying the Mission Together.” Rooted in my Haitian heritage and inspired by the national motto of Haiti—“L’union fait la force” (Unity Makes Strength)—this theme is a call to community. A reminder that our strength lies not in individual ambition, but in shared purpose. A reminder that together, we are unstoppable.
Our mission is clear. The Paul C. Perkins Bar Association is devoted to actively promoting the advancement of African Americans in the legal profession and diversity within leadership roles in the Central Florida community. The Paul C. Perkins Bar Association strives to educate the African American community in Central Florida about the legal system, while promoting reforms and advocating for improvements in the law that advance the fair administration of justice.
We are living in times that demand more than presence—they demand power, partnership, and persistence. The issues facing our communities are not new. They echo generations of struggle, resilience, and resolve. And yet, we are uniquely positioned to respond—not just as legal professionals, but as protectors of justice, equity, and truth.
This year, we will magnify our mission through intentional programming, authentic mentorship, and unapologetic advocacy. We will:
- Launch a Social Action Committee to build deeper partnerships with civic and community organizations such as the Black Health Commission, Central Florida Urban League, Equal Ground, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and local elected leaders.
- Empower our members through continuing legal education, leadership development, and community-focused initiatives that strengthen both our practice and our presence.
- Expand our voice through collaboration with local, state, and national bar associations to ensure our concerns—and our solutions—are heard.
We will also continue our longstanding commitment to service and outreach, because our work does not end in the courtroom—it begins and continues in our communities.
To our members, I ask you to lean in. Let us mobilize. Let us mentor. Let us make room for each other. Whether you are leading a case, leading in your community, or leading by example—your presence matters. Your voice matters. And together, we can ensure no one is left behind.
Let’s not just witness change.
Let’s be the reason it happens.
Let’s magnify the mission—together.
With purpose,
Annie L. Blanc, Esq.
President, Paul C. Perkins Bar Association 2025-2026