(September 4, 2020) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has earned the 2020 Law Firm Diversity Award from the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA). The firm will be honored virtually during NAPABA’s annual convention and gala reception on November 7, 2020.
One law firm is selected for this annual award, which recognizes law firms that “actively, affirmatively, consistently and enthusiastically recruit, retain and promote Asian Pacific American lawyers to equity partnership and firm leadership.” It celebrates law firm successes in recognizing the potential, supporting the promise and raising the influence of Asian Pacific American lawyers.
“We are honored to be recognized by NAPABA, an organization that shares our deep allegiance to inclusion and diversity,” said Tom Bender and Jeremy Roth, co-managing directors of Littler, in a joint statement. “Littler’s commitment has never been more paramount and we remain steadfast in our goal of enhancing and building upon what we have already accomplished so that we can continue to advance in our diversity and inclusion efforts in intentional and meaningful ways.”
According to Shareholder Eddie Chyun, co-chair of the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Council and member of the ‘Ohana affinity group, “We are grateful to NAPABA for this distinction. The organization is dedicated to fostering professional development and promoting justice, equity and opportunity for Asian Pacific Americans. This commitment aligns with Littler’s ongoing goals of creating and fostering an inclusive, equitable and diverse culture.”
As part of its many inclusion and diversity efforts, Littler recruits and develops talent through several meaningful programs and initiatives. The firm also invests in internal affinity groups for diverse attorneys – ‘Ohana, Bollo, Pride and Reunión – as well as the Women’s Leadership Initiative, which provides support, development and networking opportunities within the firm. Specifically, the ‘Ohana affinity group focuses on networking and collaboration on important initiatives for the Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African and Pacific Islander-American attorneys of Littler. The initiatives include associate development, mentorship, retention and advancement programs, as well as professional development opportunities to leverage skills in order to better service clients.
Additionally, Littler’s award-winning Career Advocacy Program (CAP) has been instrumental in advancing diverse attorneys from the associate to shareholder level. CAP pairs rising diverse associates (Protégés) with shareholder Advocates and client Champions who encourage their career growth. From 2015 to 2020, Protégés have represented on average 28% and up to 40% of the new shareholder classes.
The firm also sponsors and supports a number of diversity organizations that are dedicated to advancing opportunities for diverse attorneys, and members of the firm hold leadership roles with national and local organizations that allow them to support and engage in the community.
About Littler
With more than 1,500 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.
