The Bukharian Jewish community gathered Thursday, December 24th, at Floral Terrace to celebrate the burgeoning Bukharian Law Association (BLA) and its mission to «Empower Justice, Embrace Heritage.» Organized by local attorneys, the evening highlighted the vision and collective passion driving this historic initiative.
A Vision Rooted in Heritage
Addressing the crowd of lawyers and law students, Attorney Mari Isakov—a personal injury attorney with over 15 years of experience—delivered a heartfelt speech. She recalled her childhood in Moscow, where she had no idea she was a Bukharian Jew until arriving in the United States. This discovery of her cultural roots fueled her desire to unite and uplift the Bukharian community.
«Why not a Bukharian Law Association?» Isakov asked. «We need to be able to have people from the community walk in the door and say, ‘Hi, I need legal help, can you help me?'»
Isakov credited Leo Jacobs of Jacobs, PC, for spearheading the BLA. She emphasized the need for collective belief and effort—both from community members and legal professionals—to ensure the association becomes a longstanding resource for anyone seeking guidance in the legal system.
Building a Legacy: Leo Jacobs
Leo Jacobs, the founder and acting president of the BLA, followed with a detailed roadmap for the organization. He underscored the BLA’s guiding principle: «Empower Justice, Embrace Heritage,» a mission designed to serve 170 Bukharian Jewish attorneys and 100 Bukharian Jewish law students.
«Some may be wondering why I started the Bukharian Law Association,» Jacobs said. «When I began my legal career, I had no one around me—little support, training, or guidance. I wanted to create something better for the future of our children, our students, and our community.»
Jacobs highlighted the association’s eight main programs—from Pro Bono support to CLE offerings and a Mentorship/Internship Program—aimed at fostering mentorship, legal excellence, and cultural pride.
A Call for Community Support
The BLA seeks to secure a dedicated physical space to host events, networking sessions, and educational programs. Jacobs explained their goal to raise funds for a 2,000–5,000 sq. ft. location, hiring professional staff, and producing high-quality educational masterclass videos. He extended an invitation to all Bukharian Jewish attorneys, law students, and community supporters to join the effort, noting:
«I cannot do this alone. The success of this initiative depends on the combined efforts of our colleagues, community leaders, and supporters who share this vision for a stronger future.»
To ensure transparency, Jacobs shared that funds raised will be managed by CPA Sam Boruchov, and all financial reports will be accessible on the BLA website.
Community Pride and Looking Ahead
The evening concluded with a renewed sense of pride among attendees and gratitude for the event’s sponsors—particularly Jacobs PC, which has been instrumental in supporting the BLA’s growth.
Guests left inspired to contribute their time, resources, or expertise, recognizing the power of unity in furthering justice and heritage in the Bukharian Jewish community. As the BLA forges ahead, it promises to stand as a central hub for legal excellence, cultural awareness, and professional collaboration. With a robust vision and communal backing, the Bukharian Law Association is poised to make a lasting impact—one that will resonate with generations to come.
For more information on the BLA or to get involved, visit bukhla.org or reach out directly to Mari Isakov at misakov@mdafny.com or Leo Jacobs at leo@jacobspc.com. Donate via Zelle to info@bukhla.org.