Blakes is committed to providing legal services with a workplace environment rich in perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. Diversity strengthens the Firm, making it more effective in competing in an international marketplace and representing our multinational client base. Blakes periodically publishes the Blakes Bulletin on Equity & Diversity, holds firm seminars on subjects related to equity and diversity, and supports a number of ongoing initiatives including:
Women at Blakes: In 2008, Blakes launched "Women at Blakes," a network for women legal professionals at the Firm. This initiative was launched to provide support, mentorship, client development and networking opportunities and work/life resources to women students, associates and partners at Blakes in an effort to ensure their success in the practice of law.
Rotman/University of Toronto Program for Women in Law: Blakes is partnering with Rotman and the University of Toronto to develop a program for senior women associates. The program will focus on the power of influence, presentation skills and how to succeed in the legal environment. Blakes is a lead sponsor of the program.
New Pioneers Awards: Each year, the New Pioneers Awards showcase outstanding contributions by immigrants and refugees. Created by Skills for Change, an organization providing support for new immigrants to Canada, Blakes has supported the award since 2002. In 2008, the Entrepreneurship Award, sponsored by Blakes, was presented to Bernardo Riveros, executive director of the International Language Academy of Canada, which offers comprehensive English language programs at campuses in Toronto and Vancouver.
Law in Action within Schools (LAWS)/Blakes Mentoring Program: Blakes is partnering with the University of Toronto Law School to provide academic support and mentorship to a group of inner-city high school students facing barriers in achieving academic, career and life goals. Blakes is the only law firm participating in this pilot project.
Student Outreach Programs: Blakes supports the Black Law Students’ Association of Canada, the Jewish Law Students Association of Canada, the Korean Law Students Association of Canada, and other student organizations and community outreach programs promoting diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
To learn more about the Firm’s commitment to equity and diversity, please contact either David Tupper or Andrea York, Co-chairs of our Equity & Diversity Committee. Or, you may click here for more information on our equity and diversity programs at Blakes.
