WHO WE ARE

The Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers Western Chapter (“FACL Western”) is a volunteer‑run, non‑profit organization dedicated to promoting equity, justice, and opportunity for Asian Canadian legal professionals and the wider community.

OUR HISTORY

Lawyers in the Asian Canadian community met in 2007 to discuss forming a coalition of Asian Canadians in law. Support for this idea grew within the pan-Asian community and from these humble beginnings, the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers (“FACL”) was born.

FACL’s founding officers were:

• Justice Avvy Go, of the Federal Court; 
• Judge Maryka Omatsu of the Ontario Court of Justice; and
• Justice Julia Shin Doi of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.

FACL Western officially launched on November 18, 2014 and is part of a broader network of FACL chapters across Canada. Since its initial launch it has expanded from Calgary (2014) to Edmonton (2015), Winnipeg (2016) and Saskatoon (2017).  

FACL Western was officially incorporated on July 15, 2025, formalizing its long‑standing presence. It currently spans Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, which includes communities in Treaties 1 through 10 and the Homeland of the Métis. 

WHAT WE DO

FACL Western offers a range of programs and initiatives designed to support members throughout their legal careers, including:

• Mentorship programs pairing students and junior lawyers with seasoned practitioners.
• Advocacy initiatives that address systemic barriers and advance equity within the legal profession.
• Professional development workshops focused on advocacy, leadership and career advancement.
• Community events that encourage connection, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.