Gowlings signs on to Law Firm Diversity and Inclusion Network

22 May 2013

Gowlings is proud to be a member of the newly formed Law Firm Diversity and Inclusion Network (LFDIN), a group of over 15 law firms from across Canada that have come together to promote diversity and inclusion in their firms and the legal profession.

“It’s imperative that the legal profession be as diverse and inclusive as the society it serves,” said Scott Jolliffe, Gowlings chair and CEO. “We believe there is strength in diversity, both in terms of attracting and retaining top legal talent and in delivering the best possible service to our clients across Canada and around the world. Being part of this network allows us to work together with our peers toward this shared and important goal.”

As a member of the LFDIN, Gowlings has signed the network’s Statement of Principles, which outlines how law firms can combine efforts to promote diversity and encourage a culture of inclusion. This collaborative approach includes sharing ideas related to recruitment, retention and advancement; working with groups such as Legal Leaders for Diversity, along with other general counsel, law departments, business leaders and associations; and supporting outreach programs in law schools and the broader community.

As one of Canada’s largest law firms, Gowlings has supported a number of initiatives related to diversity and inclusion. Gowlings was one of the original signatories to the Justicia Project, an innovative program through the Law Society of Upper Canada aimed at retaining more women in legal private practice. The firm has since spearheaded the Justicia Project on behalf of the Law Society of Alberta and the Law Society of BC.

Earlier this year, Gowlings became the first Canadian law firm to receive the Starbucks International Excellence in Diversity Award. The award, presented by the Starbucks Corporate & Law Affairs department, recognized Gowlings’ extensive efforts to enhance diversity and promote inclusion within the firm and the legal profession. Gowlings has also been named one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt for three years in a row, and actively supports a variety of community service and pro bono initiatives.