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U.S. Rep Summer Lee among bar association honorees for following lead of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Allegheny County Bar Association Homer S. Brown Division honored two community leaders who have followed in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s footsteps by pushing for equality and social justice.

Newly sworn-in Congresswoman Summer Lee of Pennsylvania’s 12th district received the ACBA’s Drum Major for Justice Award at the organization’s 24th Annual Martin Luther King Day event at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Lee is the first Black woman elected to congress from Pennsylvania. She was honored for her work in the areas of civil rights and social justice.

“When you keep justice at the center of what you do, you are reminded that that’s what solidarity work is about,” Lee said following the event. “It’s making sure that we’re not just asking for order and peace, as Dr. King says, but we’re reminded that peace comes through justice.”

Attorney Alysia Keating received the ACBA’s Distinguished Service Award.

She served as the organization’s director of Diversity and Gender Equality for 10 years.

“I was lucky enough to have this job and to be able to align my personal convictions with my personal goals,” said Keating. “I am committed to leveling the playing field for everybody, especially in the legal field.”

The ACBA Homer S. Brown Division will hold a special Black History Month celebration on February 28.