It has been a genuine privilege and honor to have the chance to establish the newest Section of the New York State Bar Association, and in particular to do so while navigating the dynamic challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented. Ensuring that there is a state-wide home for members of the LGBTQ legal community and our allies allows for all members of the Section to do everything that we can to further the noblest traditions of our profession. We have done this through community building, advocacy, virtual programing, and our first in-person event just a few weeks ago. I am truly looking forward to continuing this work as we advance the mission of our Section to be a leading voice for the LGBTQ+ legal community in New York and beyond.

One of the things I am proudest of is that the LGBTQ Law Section strongly welcomes not just LGBTQ+ identified lawyers, but also our allies. According to the latest available data, over 35% of our section membership identifies as allies of the LGBTQ community. This data point speaks volumes about the importance of elevating all voices in the legal community when it comes to championing a broad and inclusive definition of diversity, equity, and inclusion.