What components make the best Law Firm for Diversity & Inclusion? How do they differ?

PMGLaw

New Member
Oct 14, 2021
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0
I'm trying to figure out what "ACTUALLY" makes a good Diversity & Inclusion Program for our law firm. What is the difference between the two: 1) Diversity 2) Inclusion

We have approximately 22 lawyers within the firm...only 3 are African-American and 2 Hispanic but I feel that we should work in adding this for the First quarter of 2022. But any guidance would be appreciated in understanding the benefits and features of a good actionable Diversity & Inclusion Program.
 

Kubed

Legendary Member
Future Trainee
Forum Winner
Junior Lawyer 49
  • Nov 25, 2020
    270
    796
    I'm trying to figure out what "ACTUALLY" makes a good Diversity & Inclusion Program for our law firm. What is the difference between the two: 1) Diversity 2) Inclusion

    We have approximately 22 lawyers within the firm...only 3 are African-American and 2 Hispanic but I feel that we should work in adding this for the First quarter of 2022. But any guidance would be appreciated in understanding the benefits and features of a good actionable Diversity & Inclusion Program.
    Hello, so I am currently developing a D&I initiative in the current non-legal company I work for. I'm no expert but it is something I am passionate about. Diversity is about having a workplace in which people from diverse backgrounds (whether that's race, religion, disability, invisible illnesses, sexuality etc.) are adequately represented. This can be as crude as a number - exactly as you've stated it with regards to the 22 lawyers at your firm. For me, inclusion is the more important bit - can everyone, regardless of their diverse characteristics, comfortably work and progress at your firm?

    There are benefits of course, but a good starting point is simply considering that it's just a good thing to do - everyone wants a meritocratic and psychologically safe environment to work in. The features really depend on what your firm's aims are and where you are currently at with your D&I strategy.
     

    TC fiend

    Legendary Member
  • Apr 27, 2021
    191
    429
    Agree with everything that Kubed says but to put it in simple terms: diversity is being able to see people who look/are like you. Inclusion is figuring out ways in which to make your firm accommodating of all those differences so that everyone is respected and supported.
     

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