In this era where diversity, equity, and inclusion can be reduced to mere buzzwords, some legal institutions embody these concepts as their lifeblood, setting the pace for a new era in legal practice. The Olivarez Madruga Law Organization (OMLO), a certified minority-owned Califonia firm recently recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of the Most Admired Firms to Work For, is a testament to this philosophy.
Heading the OMLO’s municipal law group are five Latina women; Susie Altamirano, Stephanie Arechiga, Paloma Perez-McEvoy, Norma Tabares, and Stephanie Vasquez. They are more than legal practitioners; they are icons of progress and equity in corporate law. These exceptional women serve as city attorneys for several Los Angeles County communities, including the places they were born and raised, injecting their experience and background as they shape their residents’ futures.
Alongside this primary quintet of attorneys is an inclusive team that serves to uplift and empower local leaders. They face challenges such as California’s housing crisis and support underserved communities, applying their collective expertise and unique perspectives to public service.
OMLO was founded by Rick Olivarez, whose legacy is built on public service and fostering diversity within government. His lineage boasts notable political figures such as Edward R. Roybal and Lucille Roybal-Allard, who broke barriers in Latino politics.
Diversity and inclusion at OMLO runs deeper than it does in many other legal institutions; it is not just a committee or initiative but the firm’s ethos. As a result, the firm excels in serving its diverse clientele, using its attorneys’ personal life experiences and cultural sensitivity to offer well-rounded legal advice and representation.
Given the above, it’s not surprising that Olivarez Madruga Law Organization has come to be known as a truly diverse and inclusive firm that celebrates its lawyers for who they are. They appreciate that every employee – their knowledge, background, and personal experiences – contributes to the firm’s overall strength and success.
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Originally published on Above the Law.