Diversity Lab, the organization behind the Mansfield Certification program, has announced its closure following scrutiny from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC issued warning letters to 42 prominent law firms, expressing concerns that their participation in the Mansfield Certification could violate federal antitrust laws. The program required firms to consider at least 30% of candidates from underrepresented groups for leadership roles, a practice the FTC suggested might constitute anticompetitive collusion. ([ftc.gov](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/01/federal-trade-commission-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-issues-warning-letters-law-firms-anticompetitive?utm_source=openai))
The FTC’s letters highlighted that coordinated implementation of hiring benchmarks among competing firms could distort competition for legal talent. The agency emphasized that such agreements might suppress competition in hiring, compensation, and promotions. ([ftc.gov](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/01/federal-trade-commission-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-issues-warning-letters-law-firms-anticompetitive?utm_source=openai))
In response to the FTC’s actions, Diversity Lab founder Caren Ulrich Stacy stated that the public scrutiny had led to a significant decline in client engagement, substantially depleting the organization’s operating funds. Consequently, Diversity Lab decided to pause the Mansfield Certification program. ([abovethelaw.com](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/02/trump-administration-bullies-one-of-biglaws-best-diversity-initiatives-out-of-existence/?utm_source=openai))
The FTC’s intervention has sparked debate within the legal community. Some argue that the agency’s actions undermine efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the legal profession, while others contend that the FTC is upholding antitrust laws to ensure fair competition. ([jurist.org](https://www.jurist.org/news/2026/01/ftc-issues-antitrust-warning-to-law-firms-over-diversity-certification-program/?utm_source=openai))
As Diversity Lab ceases operations, law firms are reassessing their diversity initiatives to ensure compliance with antitrust regulations while striving to maintain progress in fostering inclusive workplaces.