Committed to LGBTIQ+ inclusion

In our global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) policy we commit to creating an inclusive environment where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) colleagues can progress and develop their careers without fear of discrimination and/or harassment.

This commitment extends to our firm’s policies, practices, resources and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Examples of our initiatives include:

  • Supporting trans inclusion with policies and resources for managers and colleagues supporting someone transitioning/affirming their gender in the workplace
  • Developing gender neutral drafting guidelines for all regions. By using gender neutral language in legal documents and in every day correspondence, we are removing assumptions about others’ gender as these can lead to misgendering individuals, or excluding non-binary individuals.
  • Encouraging and supporting people to add their pronouns wherever their name is displayed. Not everyone's gender is visibly obvious and some people choose to introduce themselves using their pronouns in order to avoid being misgendered. This creates an environment where people who may be trans, gender diverse or non-binary, can safely express how they wish to be addressed.

We regularly consult with our Pride network leadership and membership to ensure our policies and practices continue to support the needs of LGBTIQ+ members in the firm.

Resource groups

Our global Pride network contributes to our diversity, equity and inclusion agenda by encouraging the recruitment, retention and professional development of LGBTIQ+ talent. It provides guidance on LGBTIQ+ inclusive policies and identifies opportunities to participate in volunteering and pro bono initiatives which support the LGBTIQ+ community.

Pride 2023 banner

The Pride network takes a three-pronged approach to their work: storytelling, networking, and partnering on joint initiatives.

Storytelling and role modeling are key parts of how we created inclusive spaces within our firm. The Pride network profiles leaders and role models and also provides opportunities to learn and to hold space for people who want to learn how to be better, more active allies. Furthermore, our global annual recognition and celebration of Pride Month provides Pride network members the opportunity to share insights, opinions and experiences, and build community.

The Pride network has also worked with and mentored other organizations’ LGBTIQ+ resource groups – including some within our client organizations – and assisted in their growth and development. By building strong relationships with other LGBTIQ+ networks outside of the firm, the Pride network has been able to further amplify their inclusive impact.

Marching for Pride

Many of our Pride chapters around the world participate annually in LGBTIQ+ parades, including Pride in Calgary (for which we are the sole legal partner), Houston, London, Brisbane, Perth and Vancouver, Mardi Gras in Sydney, Midsumma in Melbourne and Pink Dot in Hong Kong and Singapore.