Kimberly Taylor, Esq.

The American Civil War began in April 1861 and officially ended on April 9, 1865, when Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered in Appomattox, Virginia. Long before the war’s end, on September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that on January 1, 1863, all enslaved people in the Confederate states “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” Sadly, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865—more than two years later—that the news reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas. Juneteenth (short for June nineteenth) marks that historic day. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, and this year it will be observed on Monday, June 20. 

Laura B. Frankel, Esq.

Even if you are not a tennis fan, you have probably heard of Rafael Nadal from Spain. As I watched him recently win his jaw-dropping 14th French Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam championship—more than any male in history—he continues to inspire. He plays every point like his life depends on it. His intensity, tennis acumen, resilience and athleticism are simply amazing. But Nadal is also exceptional in the way he conducts himself off the court. He is gracious and respectful. His approaches to both his craft and his personal life have inspired me to think about what everyone, including attorneys and neutrals, can learn from him.

Katherine Hope Gurun, Esq.

Barbara A. Reeves, Esq., CEDS

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Barbara A. Reeves, Esq., CEDS, and Katherine Hope Gurun, Esq., provide insight on the top considerations for companies impacted by constant supply chain disruption. Barbara and Katherine specifically draw on their years of experience working at JAMS and other organizations to provide helpful tips for businesses that are navigating disruptions brought on by the pandemic, climate change, the war in Ukraine and other crises, outlining how mediation and arbitration can provide a template to help resolve related disputes.