The ISBA has long been committed to increasing diversity within the organization and the legal profession. As part of its efforts, the ISBA has supported the initiatives of the Diversity Leadership Council and related sections and committees. In 2016, when the Association reflected on its diversity initiatives, it recognized that the ISBA would benefit from surveying members to gauge the level of diversity and inclusion within the ISBA. To that end, the Diversity Leadership Council has drafted a survey for distribution to ISBA members. The survey will assess gender, age, ethnic background, race, sexual orientation and disability, as well as other characteristics that shape who we are as lawyers and a profession. The survey will be distributed later this year. Your cooperation in completing the survey will assist the ISBA in creating a more inclusive association and legal community.

This year, the Diversity Leadership Council also sponsored the annual Count Me In reception at the Midyear Meeting. Thank you to the ISBA members and friends who joined the Council to network and celebrate the active participation of all attorneys in the practice of law. We look forward to your joining us for the next Count Me In reception.

Finally, the council encourages ISBA members to take note and participate in the programs of other diversity-related groups, including the ISBA’s standing committees and sections. You can read about some of their initiatives in this newsletter and on the ISBA’s website.