Los Angeles, CA 90017

Dear Ms. Fujie:

The San Diego Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild has voted to boycott the State Bar of California events occurring at the Hyatt Manchester in San Diego.  In addition, we have voted to support the protest and demonstration organized by the Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom which will take place on Saturday, September 12.

The National Lawyers Guild was founded in 1937 as an alternative to the conservative and racially segregated American Bar Association.  Since our founding, the National Lawyers Guild has advocated for the rights of workers, minorities, woman and all persons seeking justice and equality, both in the United States and internationally.

The National Lawyers Guild supports the rights of same sex persons to marry and have all equal rights in our country.  We cannot engage in activities in the Manchester Hyatt due to the contributions of its owner, Douglas Manchester, to the Proposition 8 campaign. 

Further, we also understand that there is also a labor dispute at the Manchester Hyatt and there will be picket lines, both supporting labor and supporting LGBT rights.  Members of the National Lawyers Guild do not cross picket lines.

We are pleased that many activities, such as the Conference of Delegates, have been moved to other venues, and some of our members are participating in these activities.

However, we will not participate in activities in the Manchester Hyatt and will not support the policies of its owner, either with our money or our presence.

Very Truly Yours,

Kate Yavenditti, Attorney at Law

   On behalf of the San Diego Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild