As we settle into 2021, businesses and law firms seem more eager than ever to create work environments where employees feel valued and can achieve their potential, regardless of their gender, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation or background.
Federal Focus on Diversity
President Joe Biden is setting a diverse and inclusive tone for his administration by building a cabinet that more closely reflects the U.S. population. As part of his 15 cabinet choices, six roles have been filled by non-Caucasian candidates and five seats are now filled by women. The appointment of a Native American woman is a historic first for a presidential cabinet and highlights President Biden’s commitment to more accurately reflecting the makeup of the U.S. within his own team.
On January 20, President Biden signed an Executive Order (EO) instructing federal agencies to enforce all laws prohibiting sex discrimination. Another EO signed days later lifted restrictions on transgender individuals serving in the military. His actions signal that promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and preventing discrimination and harassment are priorities for his administration.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Legal Industry
While no states currently mandate training on diversity, equity or inclusion, many organizations and law firms see it as an area where they can raise awareness, build stronger culture, and take the next step toward creating a safe and respectful workplace.
To help you get started, we have partnered with Traliant, the industry leader in compliance training, to bring you an online Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training Suite covering racial identity, racism, diversity, inclusion, sensitivity, unconscious bias and microaggressions in the workplace.
Traliant’s modern, interactive course format is designed for how workforces learn today — with bite-sized episodes, broadcast quality videos depicting real-world situations and knowledge checks to drive retention. Offered in English and Spanish (with the capability to translate into 100+ languages), versions are available and are mobile-optimized for 24/7 access on laptops, smartphones and tablets.
Would you like to review the videos and assess them for your law firm’s DEI goals? Book a demo today!