The National Bar Association (NBA) is the oldest and largest association of predominantly African American lawyers and judges in the United States. It was founded in 1925 in Des Moines, Iowa, by a group of African American attorneys who were excluded from the American Bar Association (ABA) due to racial discrimination.

The NBA was established to provide a supportive network for Black legal professionals and to address issues of racial inequality within the legal profession and the justice system. Over the years, the organization has been at the forefront of advocating for civil rights and social justice, as well as promoting diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

The NBA has played a significant role in advancing the interests of African American lawyers and improving access to justice for marginalized communities. The organization has also been instrumental in mentoring and supporting Black law students and emerging legal professionals.

Today, the National Bar Association continues to be a leading voice for Black attorneys and advocates for social and legal justice in the United States. It remains committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession and the broader society.