The Massachusetts Bar Association is proud to announce the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee (DEIC) Mentoring Initiative. The MBA DEIC Mentoring Initiative aims to enhance diversity within the legal profession by providing support and resources to historically marginalized law students preparing for the bar exam. Through a series of informal mentoring events, we strive to create equity and support for these students.
The inaugural MBA DEIC Mentoring Initiative event will take place at the MBA in Boston on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This event will offer participants valuable insights into free resources, information on recent changes to the bar exam and opportunities to hear from esteemed speakers, including:
- Shawn Healy, Ph.D., Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers
- Kandace Kukas, executive director of the Massachusetts Board of Bar Examiners
- Members of the MBA DEIC
- Hon. Elizabeth N. Dewar, associate justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
The event is open to all law students, but its primary focus is on leveling the playing field for those who have historically had limited access to resources, study aids and mentorship. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of financial and educational resources, mentorship opportunities and updates on the bar exam. They will also hear inspiring stories from leaders who have navigated and excelled in this demanding profession.
Mentorship is particularly crucial for law students facing unique challenges, such as being first-generation students, students of color or from historically marginalized communities. According to the Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA), progress in diversity representation in Big Law has been minimal since 2010. For example, the number of Black/African American attorneys increased by less than 1% and female attorneys by less than 5%, and only 3.9% identified as LGBTQ+. Additionally, first-generation students often encounter equity gaps that can hinder their advancement in the legal field.
This program is free to the legal community.
Registration is required by 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, to participate in this program.
DEIC Emerging Lawyers Mentoring Initiative
Thursday, Oct. 17, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
MBA, 20 West St., Boston
Click here to register.