The Association of Ghanaian Lawyers of the DMV has paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Emmanuel Smith, to formally introduce the association to the new envoy and explore pathways for sustained collaboration between the Ghanaian diplomatic mission and the legal fraternity.

The visit formed part of the association’s long-standing tradition of engaging successive Ghanaian ambassadors and embassies in the United States, with the goal of strengthening legal protection, welfare support, and access to justice for Ghanaians living abroad.

Leading the delegation, Kweku Ofori, Esq., said the association considered it important to meet the Ambassador early in his tenure, describing the visit as both a courtesy call and a strategic engagement. 

He noted that the association has, over the years, maintained close working ties with Ghana’s diplomatic missions and remains committed to supporting the Embassy in responding to legal and welfare concerns confronting members of the diaspora.

Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith welcomed the delegation and commended the group for its professionalism and service to the community. He stressed the value of structured partnerships between the Embassy and professional bodies within the Ghanaian diaspora, particularly in areas related to legal education and access to justice.

During the engagement, Ambassador Smith agreed with a proposed  introduction of a “Law Day” an open forum where Ghanaian lawyers in the United States would provide free legal education and general guidance to Ghanaians and other members of the public. 

He explained that the initiative could help demystify legal processes, equip citizens with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities, and encourage early intervention on legal matters before they escalate.

The Ambassador also suggested a collaborative framework through which the Embassy and the association could support Ghanaian nationals who have been arrested or are in detention in the United States adding  that while the Embassy provides consular assistance, stronger collaboration with legal professionals would deepen efforts to ensure fair treatment and due process for Ghanaian citizens.

Members of the delegation welcomed the proposals, noting the association’s ongoing community-centred initiatives. Janelle Ocloo, Esq., an immigration legal counsel and member of the group, said the association has been organizing free legal clinics as part of its outreach activities, offering support on matters including immigration, employment rights, and access to justice. 

She expressed optimism that a formal partnership with the Embassy would expand the reach and impact of these interventions.

The meeting also allowed both sides to exchange views on broader issues affecting Ghanaians in the United States, including legal awareness, community engagement, and the need for coordinated institutional support.

The engagement ended with a mutual commitment to strengthen cooperation between the Association of Ghanaian Lawyers of the DMV and the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana, with further discussions expected on implementing the proposed initiatives.