Handala Justice Award – Courageous Advocacy

‍The Handala Justice Award honors an individual or organization for exceptional dedication to civil rights, human rights, education, social justice, immigration rights, or freedom of expression, particularly in defense of the Palestinian-American community or similarly marginalized communities. The recipient should exemplify moral courage and meaningful contributions to advancing equity and justice and/or addressing legal and systemic barriers to equal rights.

– Cultural Note: Handala (حنظلة) is a symbol of steadfastness and resistance, created by Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali. The character represents resilience and advocacy for justice.


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Al-Quds Legal Trailblazer Award – Legal Leadership & Excellence

The Al-Quds Legal Trailblazer Award recognizes a Palestinian-American legal professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, advancement, or achievement in the legal field, breaking barriers while uplifting the community. The honoree should demonstrate visionary leadership, mentorship, and a trailblazing spirit in promoting Palestinian representation, career opportunities, and excellence in the law.

– Cultural Note: Al-Quds (Jerusalem) is a symbol of Palestinian identity, heritage, and resilience.



Olive Branch Ally Award

The Olive Branch Ally Award celebrates a non-Palestinian ally, organization, or bar association that has worked collaboratively with PABA to advance shared interests - including advocacy for civil rights, international justice, and community empowerment. The recipient should exemplify a deep commitment to solidarity, cross-cultural partnership, and justice-oriented collaboration.

– Cultural Note: The olive branch is a universal symbol of peace and, in Palestinian culture, represents deep roots, resilience, and identity.



Ibdaa Rising Advocate Award

The Ibdaa Rising Advocate Award honors a young Palestinian-American attorney or law student who has shown outstanding promise in legal advocacy, leadership, and community impact. This honoree embodies excellence, resilience, a commitment to the values of justice, empowerment and cultural pride, and a spirit of innovation.

– Cultural Note: Ibdaa (إبداع) means “creativity” or “innovation” in Arabic—a name often used in youth and educational initiatives.
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Who is invited to Gala? 

PABA members and their guests are welcome to attend the Saturday Gala.  If you are added to the Invitation List by a PABA member, then you can purchase Gala tickets using the above registration link. If you are not on the Invitation List, then you can register using the above link and provide a reference of a PABA member host. All requests to purchase tickets by individuals not on the Invitation List are subject to approval by PABA.

Where in Reston VA is the Gala?

‍For member privacy and security, only PABA members and their guests will be told of the location of the Gala upon registration.

‍When will we learn more details such as keynote speakers?

‍We will provide more details on a rolling basis.

‍Is there a hotel block?
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‍We will provide information about the hotel block to all registered guests. Rates range from $299 - $349 depending on the number of guests. Guests can reserve a room with one king bed or two queen beds.

‍How should I get to the Gala?

‍The hotel is easily accessible by Metro. You can Metro from either Washington Dulles Airport OR Ronald Reagan Airport. Dulles Airport is just a couple stops away, while Reagan Airport is a little farther and requires a transfer. The Reston Station stop is on the silver line. Please refer to the location section for more details.

‍Can my firm sponsor the event?

‍Please do! We are a completely volunteer organization and there are a lot of costs associated with this event. We cannot have this event without sponsors. Please click here to view sponsorship package options and email sponsorship@pabalaw.org with any questions and details on how to complete your sponsorship.

‍Can I individually sponsor the Gala?

‍Yes!  Please click here to view sponsorship package options and email sponsorship@pabalaw.org with any questions and details on how to complete your sponsorship.

‍Are tickets refundable?

‍Tickets to the Gala are not refundable.