Jill Chasson Helps Employers Navigate DOJ’s New Anti-DEI Guidance in HR Laws Article

As the federal government continues to ramp up scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices through executive orders, a Civil Rights Fraud Initiative, and ongoing Department of Justice (DOJ) guidance, employers must take note — and take action — to avoid potential compliance risks and liability. In a new HR Laws article, Partner Jill Chasson broke down the latest DOJ memo and its implications for businesses navigating this shifting legal landscape. In the article, Jill highlighted the DOJ’s view that seemingly neutral criteria such as “lived experience” or “cultural competence” may be unlawful if they function as proxies for protected characteristics. She also explained the agency’s warnings against preferential hiring, diverse-slate requirements, race-based programs, and training content perceived as exclusionary. Additionally, Jill outlined the DOJ’s new...

Read MoreRead More
Scott Bennett Helps In Business Readers Prepare for Pending Consumer Privacy Laws

Sam Coppersmith and Malvika Sinha Outline Components of a Successful DEI Program for In Business

As more companies prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), many wonder what such programs should include. In an In Business cover story highlighting companies with strong DEI initiatives, Sam Coppersmith and Malvika Sinha share how Coppersmith Brockelman attracts diverse attorneys and helps them thrive. Sam discusses how the firm welcomed diversity of viewpoints and experiences long before DEI emerged, highlighting how hiring outstanding lawyers who looked, acted and thought differently led to a majority-female partnership with flexibility for personal and family choices that attracts new talent. He believes becoming more diverse and inclusive has helped the firm improve and expects diversity will increase as junior lawyers recruit their peers. Malvika provides perspective of how some DEI programs can negatively impact female associates and associates of color by...

Read MoreRead More