Diversity & Inclusion

Initiatives, Insights & Impact

Below is a selection of complimentary resources that reflect our legal expertise and commitment to community. Each initiative is coordinated to provide clients and the broader public with tailored, legally relevant insights that highlight niche areas of focus:

Our Women’s Initiative

The Aird & Berlis WI builds on a longstanding tradition of women’s leadership at the firm and supports the growth, success and visibility of our women lawyers, patent agents, students and staff. Men are also included in WI initiatives and programming.

Through mentorship, skills-based programming, thought leadership and community sponsorships, we create opportunities for connection, development and client-facing visibility—internally and externally.

Co-Chaired by partners Meghan Cowan and Manjit Singh, the WI is informed by a diverse Gender Equality Committee, comprised of firm members at different stages of their careers and with an array of backgrounds:

• Aaron Bains, Partner
• Chauntae De Gannes, Associate
• Gail De Souza, Manager, Support Services
• Alisha Digba, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator
• Kate Findlay, Partner
• Bryan Jones, Diversity & Inclusion Officer
• Naomi Mares, Partner
• Karen Oliveira, Manager, Communications
• Pia-Lauren Reece, Partner
• Joel M. Rose, Counsel 

Women’s Initiative Mission Statement

To advance the success of women across the firm by fostering inclusive mentorship and sponsorship, supporting professional and leadership development, expanding networks and visibility, and strengthening a culture where women thrive.

Firm Member Resource Groups

To foster workplace inclusion, we have created five affinity groups focused on Asian Heritage, the Black Community, Gender Equality, the Jewish Community and the LGBTQ2+ Community. We call these groups Firm Member Resource Groups (FMRGs).

FMRGs provide supported and ongoing engagement to connect community members are allies in order to:

• Create a stronger sense of community amongst members and, more broadly, a greater sense of inclusion and belonging within the firm;
• Support, encourage and receive feedback from members to further strengthen our DEI program; and
• Facilitate a safe and respectful meeting place for members to exchange dialogue and share ideas.

Mental Health in the Workplace

Our mental health initiative is designed to strengthen awareness and understanding, reduce stigma, and support a safe and inclusive workplace. Through our Human Resources team and Mental Health Subcommittee, Aird & Berlis delivers resources and support intended to promote well-being and enable a sustainable approach to work and life.

In collaboration with recognized mental health advocates and subject-matter experts, we provide regular education and programming focused on mental health and wellness. Our benefits program also includes mental health supports, with options that can be tailored to individual needs.

Recognition

We are proud of our achievements as we continue on our diversity and inclusion journey.

Contacts