Compiled for the LCLD Board of Directors every Wednesday, this digest is designed to brief you on the latest headlines about LCLD Members and organizations, as well as thought-provoking articles on diversity in the legal profession, talent development, mentoring, and leadership. Past issues of the Digest are also archived on the LCLD web site.

If you have questions about the Digest, articles you'd like to share, of if you would like to subscribe, please email Communications Specialist Caitlin Puffenberger at cpuffenberger@lcldnet.com. 

1. Covington Joins ACLU in Latest Suit Against Trump Administration  

Bloomberg Big Law Business, 8/28/17

Lawyers at LCLD Member firm Covington & Burling LLP are expanding on past support of LGBT rights by supporting the American Civil Liberties Union in a suit challenging President Trump’s ban on transgender men and women serving in the armed forces. 

2. Killings of Blacks by Whites Are Far More Likely to Be Ruled ‘Justifiable’

The New York Times, 8/14/17

In almost 17 percent of cases when a black man was killed by a white civilian, the killing was considered “justifiable” – either in self defense or when the victim was committing a crime – compared to just 2 percent of civilian homicides overall, according to recent data from The Marshall Project. 

3. Lawyers Licensed Outside Texas Can Provide Help to Harvey Victims

ABA Journal, 8/30/17

The Texas Supreme Court has issued an emergency order allowing out-of-state lawyers to practice in the state temporarily to provide pro bono assistance to Hurricane Harvey victims; the ABA’s Young Lawyers Division is also running a legal aid hotline for Texas and Louisiana. 

4. A Judge Wants a Bigger Role for Female Lawyers. So He Made a Rule.

The New York Times, 8/23/17

Judge Weinstein’s rule sheet invites junior members of legal teams to argue motions that they have worked on, even allowing a number of lawyers to argue for one party, specifically so that more female and minority attorneys can gain experience. 

5. Want Diversity? 15 Recruiting Tactics to Attract a Wider Range of Candidates

Forbes, 8/29/17

Suggestions include blacking out candidates’ names, collecting referrals from existing candidates (particularly diverse employees), avoiding quick hires, and building a diverse management team.