Diversity Makes Cent$

Partner Frances De La Guardia was quoted in a South Florida Business Journal article about diversity, equity and inclusions (DEI) initiatives in the workplace and their real-world impacts on organizations and employees. Ms. De La Guardia explained how DEI is "embedded" in Holland & Knight's culture, beginning at the top with firm leadership. Since 2017, half of the newly promoted partners each year have been diverse, and a third of the executive partners are from underrepresented groups. Beyond the numbers, she cited examples of partners bringing in associates from underrepresented groups to assist with cases, which also contributes to a more diverse and inclusive culture.

"It becomes systemic. Even though there's a number attached to it, it's organic," she said. "This impacts the firm, retention, attorneys working under those partners, the promotion of attorneys to partners. It's a culture of inclusion. It's what we live."

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