Statement From the National Bar Association on the Dismissal of the Case Against New York Attorney General Letitia James

The National Bar Association (NBA) affirms its unwavering support for New York Attorney General Letitia "Tish" James. The dismissal of the case against her is a powerful vindication of the rule of law. We commend the Court for upholding constitutional principles and reinforcing the essential checks and balances that protect our democracy. This outcome confirms what we have said from the beginning: the justice system must never be used as a political weapon.

Attorney General James has shown steadfast courage and commitment to her oath of office. Efforts to undermine her through meritless and procedurally flawed actions threaten judicial independence and weaken public confidence in our institutions. The law demands fairness, and today the Court has answered that call.

For more than a century, the National Bar Association has stood for justice and the protection of civil rights. We urge lawyers, judges, and citizens to remain vigilant in defending these principles. This moment reminds us that Freedom & Justice Cannot Wait!

National Bar Association President Issues Statement Condemning Trump Administration’s Attempt to Erase Black History

Wiley S. Adams, President of the National Bar Association, issued a firm and unequivocal statement condemning the Trump administration’s directive to remove pivotal artifacts from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

“The National Bar Association is outraged and deeply disturbed by Trump Administration’s attempt to erase Black History. This decision is more than a bureaucratic act—it is a deliberate assault on truth, history, and the dignity of Black Americans,” said Adams. “We are deeply disturbed by the effort to strip from public view the very items that chronicle our nation’s long, painful, and triumphant journey toward justice.”

Adams underscored that museums are not political tools, but spaces of collective learning and remembrance.

“The African American Museum preserves artifacts that bear witness to generations of struggle and progress. Removing them is an attempt to silence the voices of those who fought to shape this country.”

He further emphasized the connection between this act and a broader erosion of democratic values.

“At a moment when the rule of law, free expression, and institutional independence are under attack, this move represents yet another effort to marginalize Black Americans and distort the narrative of who we are as a nation.”

President Adams reiterated that The NBA stands in full solidarity with the Smithsonian, its curators, and all Americans who recognize the urgent need to protect historical truth.

“We call on the public to demand the immediate restoration of these cultural artifacts. The full story of America must be preserved—not selectively edited.”

Adams closed with a powerful affirmation:

“History cannot be hidden. The legacy of Black Americans cannot be erased, and we will not stand idle as our stories, struggles, and triumphs are pushed into the shadows.”