Director of Pro Bono Partnerships Jorge Escobedo participated in the recent panel “Advancing Equity: Pro Bono Leaders Discuss Their Career Paths and Bringing Increased Diversity to Pro Bono Roles in the Future.” Led by Sullivan & Cromwell Pro Bono Counsel Jessica Klein and sponsored by the New York City Bar Association’s Pro Bono Legal & Services Committee, the panel addressed the need for greater diversity and inclusion in the pro bono profession. The institutional and educational barriers that contribute to a lack of diversity in the profession were key topics of discussion.
With more than 100 lawyers and law students attending, the event also provided an opportunity in virtual breakout rooms for diverse professionals—including non-lawyers— to receive advice and mentoring on pursuing public interest careers. The Pro Bono Legal & Services Committee is committed to pursuing dialogue and concrete action on diversity and inclusion for pro bono professionals.
Co-panelists included Bradley Pro Bono Counsel & Co-President of the Association of Pro Bono Counsel Tiffany Graves, The Door’s Managing Director of Legal Services Kaavya Viswanathan, and Davis Polk & Wardwell Pro Bono Counsel for Racial Justice Initiatives Diane Lucas.
