Shifting the Perception: Law Student’s Quest to Pave a Path for Future Black Attorneys
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Former college football player Joshua Forrest once dreamed of a future in sports. But, after the events of 2020—particularly the murder of George Floyd—his outlook shifted. Activism and community work opened his eyes to the power of law, and he knew he had to be part of the change.
Forrest entered UIC Law through the SCALES program and quickly realized he was one of only five Black men in a class of 300. This lack of representation was daunting to him, but instead of backing down, he leaned in—building connections and becoming involved. Forrest found his place in moot court, excelling as he competed solo against teams of two and won Best Respondent as a 1L. Later, he and his teammate secured fourth place in the Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition, also winning Best Respondent Brief.
As a part of the Alvin H. Baum Family Fund Internship program, Forrest is currently working with the Uptown People’s Law Center where he is focused on prisoners’ rights. In his role, Forrest works on FOIA requests, assists with class action lawsuits, and ultimately works to ensure that prisoners who have had their 8th amendment rights violated can receive assistance and support. Additionally, he Social Security disability cases, and housing law. When asked how UIC law helped prepare him for this role, he credited the school’s diverse faculty for helping him develop a strong foundation, not just in legal knowledge but in understanding how law affects marginalized communities.
Beyond his own success, Forrest is dedicated to paving the way for others. As a mentor through the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) and a volunteer with Just the Beginning, he helps Black and brown students see law as a viable career path. But for him, it’s about more than just representation—it’s about shifting the perception of what a lawyer looks like. He believes Black lawyers are not just necessary but essential to ensuring a more just legal system, one that understands and serves diverse communities.
Looking ahead, Forrest aspires to pursue a career in civil rights law, tackling police misconduct and wrongful arrests. But no matter where he lands, his mission remains clear: to advocate for those who need it most and to ensure that the legal profession reflects the communities it serves.
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Increasing diversity in the legal field isn’t just about numbers; it’s about amplifying voices that have historically been silenced and ensuring that future Black attorneys have the support, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.
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