Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

Marketing the Law FirmFeaturesLaw Firm Marketing and Business Development

Professional Development: How to Be An Ally In the Legal Profession

By Sharon Meit Abrahams
May 01, 2021

Last year law firms sent out announcements about their commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts in response to racial tensions. Approximately 50% of respondents in a recent survey conducted by Legal Talent Advisors, LLC reported their firms' commitment to DEI stayed the same, while 42.5% reported more effort was made in 2020. One of the initiatives firms stated they implemented is a formal allyship program. However, allyship in not a program or a mindset. It is a verb.

What Is Allyship

Allyship is when a person takes concrete steps that positively impact underrepresented individuals; racially and ethnically diverse, differently abled, women and LGBTQ+ attorneys in the work environment. "Just as start-up companies need capital to build and grow, underrepresented groups need access to political capital to effect real change in an organization," explains Joy Heath Rush, CEO, ILTA (International Legal Technology Association). Like in business, allyship should be used in a strategic fashion to achieve improvements in firm policies and practices — the written ones and the unwritten ones. All firm leaders should be allies, as well as anyone in a firm who can use their influence to initiate change.

Why It Is Important

The legal field is one of the hardest professions to be in, not just for the lawyers, but for the professionals on the business side. Lisa Linsky, McDermott, Will & Emery's first Partner-in-Charge of Firm-wide Diversity & Inclusion notes: "Having allies in the workplace means there are people who believe in you, support your professional growth, and take a stand for inclusion." Allies actively support the efforts of underrepresented/marginalized groups to affect change in their firms. Linsky says the key is active support, not those who go along with supporting diverse attorneys.

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace Image

Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.

Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO Image

This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.

While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum Image

For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.

Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed Image

In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.

From DeepSeek to Distillation: Protecting IP In An AI World Image

Protection against unauthorized model distillation is an emerging issue within the longstanding theme of safeguarding intellectual property. This article examines the legal protections available under the current legal framework and explore why patents may serve as a crucial safeguard against unauthorized distillation.