**Oregon Filipino American Lawyers Association**  

The **Oregon Filipino American Lawyers Association (OFALA)** is a professional organization serving Filipino American judges, lawyers, legal professionals, and law students in Oregon. Established to advance the visibility and representation of Filipino Americans in the legal field, OFALA focuses on fostering professional development, promoting diversity within the Oregon State Bar, and addressing systemic inequities in the legal system.  

### Mission and Activities  
OFALA's mission includes supporting Filipino American legal professionals through mentorship, educational programs, and advocacy. The organization emphasizes increasing multiculturalism in the legal profession, empowering Oregon’s Filipino American community through improved legal access, and celebrating cultural heritage. Key initiatives involve collaborating with other affinity bar associations to address shared challenges and hosting events that highlight Filipino American contributions to the legal system.  

### Affiliations  
OFALA is an affiliate of the **National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA)** and the **National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA)**. Through these partnerships, OFALA participates in broader efforts to advance diversity in the legal profession and advocate for policies benefiting Asian Pacific American communities.  

### Community Engagement  
The organization works to strengthen ties with Filipino American civic groups and legal organizations, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and amplifying community voices. It also supports law students through scholarships and professional networking opportunities, aiming to increase pathways for Filipinos in legal careers.  

### Historical Context  
OFALA operates within a network of affinity bars in Oregon, including the Oregon Hispanic Bar Association and the Oregon Asian Pacific American Bar Association. These groups collectively address underrepresentation and systemic barriers faced by minority legal professionals in the state.