Foster and develop intentional pipelines to the practice of law, bar service and bar leadership that promote diversity, equity and inclusion, thereby, providing everyone a seat at the table
“Equal Justice Under Law” is inscribed on the front of the U.S. Supreme Court and challenges us to actively make certain there is equal opportunity for all of our members, including those who are racially, ethnically and culturally diverse, women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities. A more diverse and inclusive profession and justice system enhances the public trust of lawyers which is critical for society. Since I began practicing law, and years before I even thought about the Bar presidency, true diversity and inclusion for our profession has been one of my passions and is part of the true fabric of who I am. The Bar must create and foster pipelines from our local Voluntary Bars, FAWL, CABA, Virgil Hawkins, the Florida Hispanic Bar Association, the Leadership Academy, the YLD, and Sections to increase diversity and equity within the Board of Governors, the Bar’s Committees, and the Committees’ leadership positions. We must intentionally bring everyone to the table to truly succeed as an organization. I believe developing these concrete, definite pipelines to Bar service and leadership are critical to our path forward.