Many of us have worked for decades to advance diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. We started our fight early in our careers and continue to work to effectuate real change throughout our evolution. What is at stake is significant: equality; empathy; trust; a sense of belonging.

It is unquestionably important for the legal profession to be diverse and inclusive to adequately represent and serve the many communities that form our society. Despite this, increasing diversity in the legal profession, especially in the upper ranks, has progressed slowly. Throughout my career, I have seized opportunities to advance women and minorities, and to understand and pursue effective strategies for progress.