Actionable Allyship: The conversation continues
Actionable allyship moves beyond passive solidarity and requires speaking up or intervening during acts of marginalization, even at the risk of backlash or negative consequences. As catalysts for change, we remain committed to doing our part in fighting systemic racism, social injustice and inequity.” Satra Sampson-Arokium Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer “
Joining in the global conversation Dechert joined a collaboration of law firms, combining efforts to address long-standing systemic racism. The Law Firm Antiracism Alliance (LFAA) aims to amplify the voices of those oppressed by racism to better use the law as a vehicle for change to benefit communities of color and promote racial equity. As the trial of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd unfolded, we took a stance in support of the verdict. We spoke out as hate crimes towards members of the Asian community saw a rise around the United States.
In the UK, Dechert proudly sponsored the Black British Network (BBN), a new initiative that supports the social and economic advancement of Black people. With the Mansfield Rule – named after Arabella Mansfield, the first female lawyer in the United States – expanding to the UK, Dechert was also one of the first firms to test the Mansfield Rule principles outside the United States. Our response also continues through tangible actions, including our pro bono representation of Windrush claimants in the UK that seeks to right the wrong faced by thousands of families who were incorrectly told that they were in the UK illegally and detained, deported and denied legal rights. “Best International Firm for Diversity” Euromoney – Americas Women in Business Law Awards 2021 “Diversity Leader” Profiles in Diversity Journal, 2021 “Best Places toWork for LGBT Equality” Perfect score in Corporate Equality Index for the ninth year in a row Human Rights Campaign , 2021 “Diversity and Inclusion Champion” South Asian Bar Association of North America – SABA North America Awards 2021
Dechert was also the first law firm to sign the Business Statement Opposing Anti-LGBTQ State Legislation, taking a stance against discrimination of LGBTQ people in proposed U.S. legislation.
Mansfield Rule Certified Plus Diversity Lab , 2021
Portraits of Dechert associates Melissa Ayeltigah and Jonathan Burke, who were featured in the ‘Portrait of Black Britain’ exhibition organized by the Black British Network.
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