Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Anyone can say they are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. RRD believes that true commitment comes from what we do. In service to our clients and to the legal profession at large, RRD actively participates in local, state and national efforts to advance diversity, equity and inclusion within our own ranks and throughout the Connecticut bar.

RRD’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee coordinates the firm’s efforts in this area. The Committee is chaired by Beck Fineman, an equity partner of our firm and an “out” transgender man. We do not, however, rely upon “diverse” lawyers and staff to carry the DE&I torch. The members of our Committee include both diverse individuals and allies, and we encourage every member of our firm to find ways to support our mission.

Currently, almost half of the firm’s attorneys include women, racial/ethnic minorities, and members of the LGBT and veteran communities. And, we are investing in efforts to recruit and retain more diverse associates, which will ensure a more diverse partnership in the future. As just one example, we hire summer associates in partnership with the University of Connecticut School of Law Cultural Diversity Initiative (“CDI”) and support CDI programming for law students throughout the year. RRD is also a proud signatory to the Connecticut Legal Community’s Diversity & Inclusion Pledge & Plan and supports the Connecticut Bar Association’s LSAT scholarship program. In 2020, the firm joined the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance (“LFAA”), a national coalition of law firms aiming to create large-scale, coordinated pro bono projects that address systemic racism. Our lawyers also participate in various state and national affinity bar associations.

RRD associates benefit from the mentorship that is the heart of our firm culture. We go out of our way to work with clients who allow associates at all levels to handle meaningful work under the supervision of more experienced partners. This allows us to assign our women and minority associates to substantive roles in client matters. RRD welcomes the opportunity to partner with clients who share our commitment to diversity and inclusion; after all, it is only with client support that our aspirations today become our reality tomorrow.