The Association of Ghanaian Lawyers of the DMV has paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, to strengthen legal protection and access to justice for Ghanaians living in the US.

The visit was to introduce the association to the new Ambassador formally and to explore areas of sustained collaboration between the Ghanaian diplomatic mission and the legal fraternity in the diaspora.

It also formed part of the association’s long-standing practice of engaging successive Ghanaian ambassadors to address the legal and welfare needs of Ghanaians abroad.

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

He said the association has maintained close working relationships with Ghana’s diplomatic missions over the years and remains committed to supporting the Embassy in responding to legal and welfare concerns affecting members of the diaspora.

Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith welcomed the delegation and commended the association for its professionalism and service to the Ghanaian community in the United States.

He underscored the importance of structured partnerships between the Embassy and professional bodies in the diaspora, especially in legal education and access to justice.

During the meeting, the Ambassador supported a proposal to introduce 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 said the initiative could help demystify legal processes, empower citizens with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities, and promote early intervention to prevent legal issues from escalating.

The Ambassador also proposed 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.

He noted that while the Embassy offers consular assistance, closer collaboration with legal professionals would strengthen efforts to ensure fair treatment and due process for Ghanaian citizens.

Members of the delegation welcomed the proposals and highlighted the association’s ongoing community-focused work.

Immigration counsel Janelle Ocloo, Esq., said the group has been organising free legal clinics as part of its outreach, providing support on issues including immigration, employment rights, and access to justice.

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

The engagement also provided an opportunity for 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 meeting ended with a shared commitment to deepen 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.