Congratulations to Al Flores, newly appointed member of the State Bar Board of Governors. The board of directors met for a planning retreat on September 26, 1998. The board identified several important issues and reached many decisions regarding fund-raising, endorsements, civil rights and staff support. It was decided that fund-raising is a critical function of the organization. A budget will be developed, bylaws changes made and a change to the fiscal year will be discussed.
Civil rights is an important issue to the board.
We fully support the activities of our active Civil Rights Committee headed by Antonio Bustamante, including current issues involving review of proposed legislation, lobbying and federal immigration prosecutions. Controversial civil rights issues will be subject to board approval. The board approved staff support needs including funding the newsletter managed by Francisco Gutierrez and Adriana Zavala and continuing support of our website. After much discussion concerning our endorsement policy and due to the divisiveness, hard feelings and availability of multiple qualified candidates, the board decided to cease endorsements of individual candidates for judicial or other positions. The board will maintain the Appointments Committee, will advocate for Hispanic appointments and for diversity in appointments in general.