Breaking the Glass Ceiling: The Rich History of Women Attorneys and Their Efforts to Give Back to Communities
Women attorneys have been making their mark on the legal profession, and more broadly, on our society for decades. Calling out the accomplishments of the many women who have blazed the trail for us today evokes a mix of emotions for me. On the one hand, I am very proud of the countless women who have come before me, opening doors and changing minds. On the other hand, I am reminded that true equality is still an aspiration.
I look forward to the day when we do not have to single out women’s accomplishments because we can celebrate the best of the best regardless of gender, race, or religion. I hope that societies around the world will recognize that diversity is a strength, one that should be valued and nurtured.
Following in the Footsteps of Pioneering Women
When I first entered the legal profession, moving up the ranks was not so easy. However, I recognize that for the many brave women who came before me, it was 1,000-fold more difficult, which is why I am so grateful that they led in such a positive way.
L-r: Belva Ann Lockwood, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Marian Wright Edelman (Photo Source: Wikipedia Commons)
Throughout history, there have been many female attorneys whom I admire. Many have not only had a significant impact on the practice of law but have also made their mark through a commitment to giving back to the community. Amongst these pioneers was Belva Ann Lockwood, who was the first woman admitted to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1880. Beyond breaking barriers herself, Belva was a fierce advocate for women’s suffrage and equal rights, as well as helping establish scholarships for women to attend law school.
Another of my idols is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a highly principled and outspoken Supreme Court Justice. Throughout her tenure on the nation's highest court, she was a champion for gender equality. Amongst the organizations she supported was the ACLU Women’s Rights Project, which she co-founded.
I also greatly admire Marian Wright Edelman, who is the first Black woman admitted to the Mississippi Bar, among many other firsts and accolades. She has been a leading voice for children’s rights, having founded the non-profit Children’s Defense Fund (CDF).
These are just a few of the exceptional women who have graced the annals of female history within the legal profession.
The Importance of Carrying the Torch
As women walking in the footsteps of these giants, we must carry the torch. It is incumbent upon us to mentor the next generation of legal minds, helping young lawyers to advance. When I started my law firm, I was keenly focused on creating a culture that encouraged my team to think like business owners. I hired women and men whom I thought had real promise and then committed to mentoring them, enabling them to grow in their careers. At my current firm, Blank Rome, I helped initiate the Women's Summit, a retreat specifically designed for our female partners and clients. This signature event offers us the opportunity to get to know one another and support each other, and has been a career game-changer for many attendees.
I have also shared my message about equality and diversity through as many channels as I can. I have been a regular contributor to various legal publications and host a podcast that celebrates highly accomplished women across a broad spectrum of professions, helping to share their collective wisdom with as wide an audience as possible.
I often hear from people who have greatly appreciated the messages shared by my friends, peers, and colleagues, which reinforces my desire to continue to help in any way I can.
The Ripple Effect of Giving Back to the Community
Throughout my life, I have seen firsthand the positive ripple effects of giving back to the community. Even the smallest gestures can have a significant impact on others, particularly those who are most in need. This philosophy inspired me to launch Adopt-A-Center 25 years ago.
This program provides crucial funding, mentorship, and visibility to Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to underserved children and families. To date, we have supported 25 distinct organizations with customized programs tailored to their unique missions and objectives. I am proud of the social impact Adopt-A-Center has had, and continues to have, on so many worthy organizations that are the grassroots of community support.
Another organization I am pleased to be a part of is Public Counsel. I recently took on the role of Chair of this non-profit law firm, which is the largest of its kind in the U.S. Public Counsel champions access to justice for those who are less fortunate. With a rich history spanning more than 50 years of serving communities, this organization is helping shape public policy and expanding vital legal services to individuals who need them most. And, given today’s political climate, free services like these are more critical than ever.
There is So Much More to Do
While many women have made noteworthy accomplishments, having broken through glass ceilings previously thought unattainable, there is so much more still to do in the worlds of business, government, and the legal community. We must build on the accomplishments of those who have blazed new trails and continue to fight the good fight. I am a true believer that women can and should be great role models for other women, as well as men. Compassion, conviction, and commitment to community are at the core of what many accomplished women stand for. I, for one, humbly follow in those crucial footsteps.
Please note: The content and views expressed here are my own and do not reflect or represent the positions, strategies, views, or opinions of Blank Rome LLP.