(Excerpts from this article were originally published in Law360)
Several law firms have chosen to address the topic of police brutality and systemic racism head-on this week, with both internal and external statements expressing their support for justice, something diversity professionals say can go a long way toward creating an inclusive workplace.
In an email sent firmwide on June 1, Selendy & Gay co-managing partner Jennifer Selendy wrote, "We, as a firm, want to acknowledge the strain of these events and encourage dialogue and action. Our community was built to be a place that always stands on the right side of history. Our actions — on behalf of our clients, and on behalf of the public interest — define who we are as a firm, and we are proud to be standing, and resisting, with you."
Selendy also announced that the firm plans to make a "substantial" donation to a racial justice project and will expand its program matching COVID-19-related donations by attorneys and staff to include organizations that are working to support communities of color and end racial injustice.
The firm also plans to seek additional ideas from attorneys and staff on how it as an organization can help address "this long-standing crisis" of racial inequality, Selendy said.
Read the full piece in Law360.
