Blackwell Burke P.A. was a proud sponsor of the 14th Annual Gala of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association (MHBA). The MHBA is committed to unifying and organizing all members of the Hispanic legal community to promote legal professionals and to serve as an advocate for the Hispanic community in MN.
The Hon. Peter M. Reyes, Jr. accepted the Manuel Guerrero Courage in Leadership Award, which was named after the first president of the MHBA. In his acceptance speech, Judge Reyes talked of his childhood, how he persevered and was inspired to become an advocate for the oppressed and for those who have no voice of their own.
General Counsel and Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs of Spotify, Horacio Gutierrez was the key not speaker. He also served as former Deputy General Counsel of Microsoft.
“Hispanic lawyers come to the profession with a deep desire to make the world a better place,” said Mr. Gutierrez. He reflected on Michelangelo’s statue of David, freezing David in his last moments of contemplation before he slew Goliath. “Today in these United States, we need more lawyers who dare,” he challenged.
Alcazar and Pete Goss reflect on issues
addressed by the speakers.
“For Blackwell Burke, diversity is a leadership imperative. We celebrate the advancement of lawyers of color and that is why it is important for us to sponsor uplifting events such as these,” said Gerardo “Jerry” Alcazar, a partner at the firm. Jerry is past president of the MHBA and former Region XI President for the Hispanic National Bar Association.