Kim Koopersmith Comments on Law Firm Antiracism Alliance Summit
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Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith was quoted by The American Lawyer for the article “‘We Have to Succeed’: Law Firm AntiRacism Alliance Holds First Summit.” Akin Gump helped create the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance (LFAA), which was launched in late June and now counts 240 law firms among its members, as a way to leverage the resources of the signatory firms in partnership with outside legal services organizations.
The LFAA held its first summit, virtually, on July 29 and 30 to examine ways law firms can best marshal their collective resources to support organizations seeking to address racial inequality.
Koopersmith noted that she was impressed by the summit’s turnout and the attendees’ enthusiasm, but said that, as a foundational principle, if attendees are to be effective in enabling change, the organization needs to be mindful of how racial justice partner organizations work. She noted that these organizations have been fighting these issues and offer unparalleled expertise and depth, adding, “We have over 200 very eager and committed law firms, and [they] need to see a path forward on how to leverage their collective expertise and experience. But we have to be able to offer it in a way that allows these organizations to advance their agendas.”
She also commented that the LFAA is a body that has the potential to marshal assets in a way unlike any individual law firm can, noting that it can take a “holistic approach” to tackling issues.
Koopersmith said the LFAA has “created the infrastructure and did it well. Now there is reason, as they are doing, to recognize this is a long-term commitment. But that commitment needs to be balanced with short-term efforts as well.” She hopes that will include opportunities to connect firms with racial justice organizations to provide the resources and support to allow these organizations to make the progress that comes from a massive commitment of highly engaged lawyers.
To learn more about the LFAA, please click here.
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