In an effort to protect and uphold their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, large law firms (Biglaw) are embracing new guidance amid ongoing attacks on these initiatives. The New York State Bar Association task force, led by Julie Jones, chair of Ropes & Gray, has created a plan to assist these firms in safeguarding their DEI programs. Bloomberg Law reported on Jones’ intent to help firms “minimize unnecessary changes to valuable DEI initiatives that are perfectly legal and good,” in the midst of criticism following the Supreme Court’s anti-affirmative action ruling.
The fallout from the Supreme Court’s decision has negatively impacted many law firms’ DEI initiatives. In response to this, the task force, which also includes Paul Weiss attorneys Brad Karp, Loretta Lynch (a former US attorney general), and Jeh Johnson (a former Homeland Security Secretary) as co-chairs, has collaborated with around fifty Biglaw attorneys and law school deans. Together they have drafted a 93-page report that suggests ways law firms can legally attract and retain diverse talent.
It’s a significant step towards cementing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession and ensuring that law firms continue to embody these principles, despite adversities. These professionals are proving to be a considerable force, demonstrating that diversity is not just a legal requirement but a valued aspect of their firms’ ethos.
From this, it’s evident that big law firms are committed to making sure their DEI programs are not diminished as a result of contentious rulings. By accepting expert advice, these firms have provided a beacon of hope for the future of diversity and inclusion in the industry. With this action, they signal that progress, while sometimes faced with setbacks, will continue to forge ahead.