Benita Ikpo, a Calgary-based Associate in our Litigation group, shares why the work of the firm’s Origins resource group is crucial.

One of the goals of the Origins resource group is to successfully normalize the dialogue about race. These discussions remain uneasy to have.

For me, joining Origins and becoming co-chair of the Event Committee is an opportunity to support the firm in achieving this goal, and to celebrate and recognize Black history and the history of other marginalized groups.

Outside of work, I am also eagerly learning more about the history of Canada and how Black history is such an important part of it. As I educate myself further on the links that exist between these histories, I consider Black History Month a brilliant opportunity – for not just Black people, but for all people – to learn, honour, acknowledge, and celebrate the legacy and various contributions of Black historical figures and current Black trailblazers in Canada.

“Through Origins, I get to share creative ideas and help implement initiatives that support how the firm marks Black History Month, as well as help people learn about Black history in the Canadian context.”

Overall, the goal of the Origins resource group is to focus on supporting the firm in providing a culture that will value, nurture, develop and advance Black people and all people from racialized backgrounds. The group has made strides in its efforts to normalize dialogue about race through Black History Month events and other initiatives, but the work continues.

A final note I want to end on is that, at work and in society, intersectionality should always remain in the forefront of our minds. To that end, I appreciate that Origins is open to collaborating with other resource groups that focus on diverse and unique histories, identities, and experiences that are independent of racialized backgrounds.