ABA President-Elect
William Bay
Appoints Amanda Simmons as a Fellow of the
American Bar Association for the 2024-2025 Term 

Attorney Amanda Simmons of Ambika Law, PC was recently honored with a prestigious appointment as a Presidential Fellow for the American Bar Association representing the SOGI Committee.  This prestigious appointment will allow Amanda to focus on her advocacy efforts for institutional child abuse and the troubled teen industry on behalf of the American Bar Association.  

The American Bar Association’s Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Committee works to advance the rights and inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals within the legal profession and broader society. The committee focuses on education, advocacy, and policy reform to combat discrimination and promote equal treatment under the law. It provides resources, support, and networking opportunities for LGBTQ+ lawyers and allies, fostering a more inclusive and equitable legal community.

Attorney Amanda Simmons has contributed significantly to the American Bar Association (ABA) through various initiatives. She helped draft and pass ABA Resolution 605, which supports legislation to prevent child abuse in youth residential facilities. Simmons has also spoken at key events, such as the National Association of Women Judges Annual Conference, where she discussed her experiences and the need for judicial education on institutional child abuse. Additionally, she has presented on juvenile strip searches, highlighting their harmful impact and advocating for policy reforms. Simmons also helped produce and moderate a 3-part webinar series on the troubled teen industry, emphasizing the need for policy changes and protections for vulnerable youth. She continues to work closely with the ABA’s SOGI Committee and the Children’s Rights Litigation Committee to advance protections for vulnerable children.