See more from 44th Michigan Legal Milestone event

In one of the State Bar of Michigan’s largest Michigan Legal Milestones celebrations, more than 100 people gathered in Idlewild on August 25, 2023, to recognize the achievements of Percy J. Langster, the first Black prosecutor elected in the United States.

Langster (1889-1954) served as Lake County prosecutor from 1949-1950 and he is the 44th Michigan Legal Milestone. A bronze plaque commemorating his life and legacy was unveiled during the celebration at Yates Township Hall.

“I am so proud that Percy Langster will forever be memorialized through this Michigan Legal Milestone recognition. His courage and perseverance allowed him to challenge both direct and institutional racism,” State Bar President James Heath said. “As the elected prosecutor for Lake County, he committed himself to delivering equal justice within a system which overtly marginalized Black citizens. All of us who have in some way taken on the task of making our society more fair and just owe Percy Langster a tremendous debt of gratitude.”

Among the long list of dignitaries attending the event were Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Welch, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, MSU Law Dean Linda Greene, and dozens of elected officials, including judges, members of the SBM Board of Commissioners and township and county officers.

Browse more photos from the event here.
Watch a video of the full program here.
Check out a news story by 9 & 10 News here.

Posted September 7, 2023