Famed Litigator Leo Branton, Jr. Meets with 6th Grade
“Wow, he’s accomplished so much in his life!” “I can’t believe I never knew what an amazing and courageous leader he was,” were among the comments heard by 6th graders after their second encounter with famed litigator and entertainment lawyer Leo Branton, Jr., who practiced law for fifty-two years, and played an influential role in the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. Branton also received several awards for his work from the California State Senate and the NAACP Legal Education and Defense Fund, to name a few.
When Mr. Branton spoke at a History Makers assembly a few months ago, all were captivated by his sense of humor and engaging stories. The 6th graders enjoyed him so much, they wanted to hear him again. When asked to return to BHS, Mr. Branton said he felt honored, and agreed to a personal meeting with the 6th Grade. During this time, Mr. Branton discussed several topics: his work with the NAACP, which included the trial of an African American veteran charged in the double murder of a white couple in Riverside County, and his work that challenged the jury system in Riverside County that eventually led the county to select its first black juror. From his stories as a persistent lawyer to his bravery as a soldier overseas, it was truly a privilege for the 6th grade to hear from such an accomplished and humble man!
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Located in Los Angeles, CA, Berkeley Hall School is a private, coeducational school for students in preschool through grade 8. Rigorous academics in a supportive atmosphere and grounded character development allow students to become fearless scholars and conscientious citizens - gain a love of learning, leadership with social responsibility, creativity with moral integrity, and self-esteem with compassion for others and the environment.