CA Women Lawyers: In Conversation with Brenda Adams

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About the 2021 Fay Stender Award
“San Francisco attorney Brenda Star Adams will be honored with CWL’s 2021 Fay Stender Award.

The award, named for Bay Area attorney Fay Stender who passed away in 1980, is given to a feminist attorney, who, like Stender, is committed to the representation of women, disadvantaged groups and unpopular causes, and whose courage, zest for life and demonstrated ability to effect change as a single individual makes her a role model for women attorneys. Currently serving as Senior Counsel in Education Equity and Litigation at Equal Rights Advocates (ERA) in San Francisco, Adams leads ERA’s sexual violence litigation and education equity work, including setting strategic goals, developing impact litigation strategies, leading impact litigation teams, managing pre-litigation advocacy, and providing technical support on legislative efforts.

A graduate of the University of California, San Diego, and New England Law, Adams has also devoted her considerable energy, ability, and passion to advocating in and out of the courtroom for those seeking relief from abuse and discrimination. Whether through direct representation, leading impact litigation teams, or working on legislative change, Brenda is a zealous advocate for persons who have suffered discrimination and abuse. With media appearances, writings, and trainings too numerous to list, Adams has sought to shine a bright light on some of the most insidious behaviors and policies that directly impact the ability to be safe and thrive at home, school, and work. As one of her former colleagues wrote of Adams, “Her passion to conquer the inherent injustice that accompanies poverty, racism, and sexism made her a force to be reckoned with. Through her tireless efforts, she inspired her colleagues, instilled a sense of confidence and reassurance in her clients, and restored human dignity one case at a time.””