According to a new survey, a substantial 70% of Black women lawyers have reported facing discrimination or bias in their workplace, or personally witnessed this being directed at others. This study, known as the State of Black Women in the Law 2023 DEIB Assessment Report, also revealed that nearly 47% of the participating previously felt it necessary to educate their peers about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Despite the fact that a great majority of surveyed Black women lawyers acknowledged their workplaces for being committed to enhancing diversity, a notable 66% expressed that they would not remain in their current organization for at least two more years. This sentiment can be attributed to a BELOW-average “sense of belonging”.
The survey, sponsored by the National Bar Institute, highlights the systemic struggle of Black women lawyers not just to find their rightful place of respect and equality in the legal world, but also the problematic burden that makes them unintentional educators on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
The findings of this study present imperative implications for corporate culture and affirmative policies in law firms globally. The lack of a sense of belonging expressed by 66% of Black women lawyers reflects the urgent need for law firms and corporations to reconsider their strategies towards creating a more inclusive work environment and demonstrate not just equality, but also equity, in action.
For further information and detailed findings of the study, visit this link.