Our attorneys have extensive experience counseling employers on their approach to creating an inclusive business culture, including in the development and evolution of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. We’ve helped companies build and expand their inclusion programs, and we evaluate their programs for compliance—particularly in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) striking down race-conscious admissions programs, as well as federal Executive Orders and regulatory activity.
Our team focuses on DEI consulting and development with a sensitivity to important legal and organizational issues—including regulatory compliance, the interplay of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action laws, reverse discrimination risks, and the role of DEI in potential discrimination litigation. We also advise clients on the cultural and public relations challenges related to the shifting legal landscape around these topics.
We have assisted numerous clients in conducting risk assessments of their DEI programs and initiatives, spanning workforce, procurement, and charitable and community aspects including foundations and incubators.
We’ve represented a broad range of clients from publicly traded companies to financial institutions to nonprofits, as well as higher education institutions, and more.
Many of our clients have evolved their DEI programs to focus on inclusivity and belonging, as well as using DEI initiatives as a means to ensure that unlawful barriers to equal opportunity do not exist. They recognize that, consistent with civil rights laws, carefully crafted and well-designed inclusiveness initiatives can add value to the business, including workforce innovation, community connections, and expansion of multicultural markets.
Representative Experience
- Advise numerous clients in connection with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in SFFA, as well as Executive Orders and regulatory changes, and their potential impact on corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
- Completed comprehensive risk assessments of holistic diversity, equity, and inclusion programs to ensure compliance with state, federal, and local laws, Executive Orders, and federal regulations for corporate and nonprofit clients across a wide range of industries.
- Advised nonprofit organizations on the interplay of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and the potential impact on their tax-exempt status.
Insights, News, and Events
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![Legal Alert]()
DOJ Announces New Initiative Aimed at Entities Receiving Federal Funds; Specifically Targets Higher Ed
![Legal Alert]()
Fourth Circuit Lifts Nationwide Injunction of Executive Orders Addressing DEI Programs
![Legal Alert]()
Federal Court Refuses to Lift Preliminary Injunction Blocking DEI Executive Orders, While EEOC, USDOE, and State AGs Address DEI in Education
