Established in 2024, the Southwest Journal of Law and Equality (SWJLE) was founded by the Southwest Region of the National Black Law Students Association (SWBLSA) as a platform for Black law students to engage in and publish meaningful legal scholarship. SWJLE was created to explore how race, history, and the pursuit of justice intersect within our legal systems and to amplify voices that have long been underrepresented in legal academia.

SWJLE began with a founding team of seven dedicated members representing institutions across Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. From its inception, the Journal has embodied SWBLSA's mission of promoting academic excellence, leadership, and service within the Black legal community throughout the Southwest region.

Our mission is to elevate legal scholarship that thoughtfully examines issues impacting marginalized communities and to advance dialogue centered around equity, access, and justice. As a publication rooted in inclusivity and intellectual rigor, SJLE provides a space for students, scholars, and practitioners to shape contemporary legal discourse through diverse perspectives and innovative ideas.