Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, announces today that it is among the foundational firms joining the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance (LFAA), a coalition of over 125 law firms and other organizations united to identify and dismantle systemic racism.

Recent events have highlighted the need for law firms to do more to address the structural and systemic racism in the legal industry and government institutions that continue to disproportionately and negatively affect people of color. In this crisis moment, the LFAA is focused on bringing to bear the responsibility and resources of law firms alongside legal services organizations to use the talents of lawyers and professionals to effect change through pro bono, while also endeavoring to ensure law firms are a part of needed change.

“We are stronger together, and I’m gratified by our collective resolve to accept responsibility and contribute to permanent change in the unjust application of our laws,” said Ben Weinberg, pro bono partner at Dentons and a past president of the Association of Pro Bono Counsel. “The current situation is widespread and untenable, and as lawyers we recognize the ability we have to help create solutions.”

In joining to create the LFAA, Dentons commits to leverage its reach, resources and talent to assertively and intentionally undertake the work of antiracism.

“The events of the past weeks remind us that our continual recommitment to the foundational pillars of Dentons, the importance of inclusion and respect across our Firm and our communities, and the role that we play – individually and as an institution – in racial equality and justice have never come with greater responsibility,” said Dentons US CEO Mike McNamara. “We are pleased to be among so many strong, like-minded firms in this goal of sustained reform. I look forward to personally working together with colleagues across Dentons in bringing LFAA’s purpose to life and to making both our profession and our society more diverse, inclusive, equitable and just.”

LFAA will facilitate large-scale pro bono projects that address systemic racism that are both immediate and long-term in scope, with priority areas determined by affected communities, community organizers, policy experts and legal aid partners. Member firms also acknowledge their ongoing responsibility to increase diversity, equitable access to opportunities and inclusion of people of color within their ranks and are committed to examining and eliminating internal policies and practices that may perpetuate racial inequities in their firms.

About Dentons

Redefining possibilities. Together, everywhere. For more information visit dentons.com