ALAMN Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Statement

 Our legal community is strengthened by the diverse experiences, perspectives, and talents of the legal professionals who support the practice and business of law. As legal management professionals, we are committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where every voice is valued. By embracing our differences and working collaboratively, we strengthen our organizations, our profession, and the legal community across Minnesota.

Our mission is to support and empower legal management professionals throughout Minnesota to lead the business of law while advancing workplaces that are equitable, inclusive, and accessible. We promote open dialogue, shared learning, and thoughtful leadership around these priorities. While we may not have all the answers, we are committed to listening, learning, and growing together.

To advance these commitments, we strive to:

• Provide programs, resources, products, and services that are accessible to all.
• Promote awareness and understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in alignment with the mission of ALA DEIA.
• Encourage individuals to bring their authentic selves to work and address behaviors or decisions that conflict with our values.
  • Build trust through open and honest communication grounded in mutual respect.

Our Approach to DEIA

Diversity means recognizing, respecting, and valuing the many differences that shape our legal community. This includes characteristics such as gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, physical ability, and sexual orientation, as well as differences in experience, such as career paths, education, communication styles, geographic backgrounds, military service, and family roles.

Equity involves identifying and removing barriers and addressing systemic challenges so all individuals have fair access to opportunity, participation, and advancement in the legal profession.

Inclusion focuses on creating environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute fully. It requires actively identifying and removing barriers, particularly those affecting individuals historically underrepresented in the legal industry.

Accessibility ensures that environments, information, and services are usable and available to all by removing both physical and nonphysical barriers.

Through collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning, Minnesota’s legal community can build workplaces that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and foster a culture of belonging for all.

The Association of Legal Administrators (“ALA”) has a tag line for diversity: “We want you to see and feel our commitment to diversity in everything we do.” The ALAMN DEIA Team follows this same sentiment. The ALA encourage conversations about, acceptance of and a focus on these issues throughout the legal community. The ALA may not have all the answers, however, we strive to keep listening to better expand our empathy and knowledge. Read our full statement on our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. 

 Below is not intended to be a complete list of resources, but includes many of our favorites.  If you have suggestions to add to the list, ideas on how we can serve you better, or if you would like to join the committee, please contact Bernie Theis.