EDITORS' NOTE: At Constangy, we like to say that DEI is in our DNA. Like many in the world, we in the DEI Practice Group are inspired by current events and strive to channel that inspiration to support and drive change within ourselves and with our clients. Neil Wasser, one of our Partners and Chair of our Firm’s Executive Committee, shared a personal message yesterday. His words and leadership resonated so strongly, and we would like to share them with you (with his permission, of course).  

- Lara and Punam 

When you think about diversity, equity, and inclusion, you may think about racial disparities in policing, criminal justice reform, gender wage gaps, or even statements by major corporations, politicians, or celebrities. Or you may think about the anti-discrimination and harassment training that you have to do at work. Another diversity battleground is emerging in our schools and institutions of higher learning, however, and not just related to affirmative action, but with curricula and diversity training. These developments are shining yet another light on our need to transform.

Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate all the moms, especially those who have managed through an unprecedented year as CEO of their families. Most days we are tired, beaten down emotionally and physically, feeling overworked and underappreciated. As COVID-19 continues to take a toll on daily life, schools, childcare, healthcare, workplaces, and the economy, are employers really doing enough to support women?

As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is clear we are living at the crossroads of a historical moment; at the precipice of a time where the political, social, economic, technological, and cultural fabric of society is being bluntly examined and challenged. We the people, our businesses, and communities can no longer simply ignore the lack of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within our institutions. As a US Business in 2021, we are in a unique position to hold transformative power to change and contribute to a more open, diverse, and inclusive workplace and society.