Perkins Coie pledges resources and action to advance racial equality.
In 2020 and 2021, our nation experienced significant change, characterized by a renewed and profound examination of the racial inequality that has persisted throughout our history and continues to impact the daily lives of people of color. This reckoning began with the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and others. It continued with a broad social movement that extended across our country.
As a firm, we are committed to doing our part to end racism and help create a more just and equal society. These commitments were established to build upon the significant work we were already doing to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within our firm and society.
Financial Contributions to Promote Racial Equality
We contribute at least $500,000 annually to community-led as well as local and national organizations that promote racial equality through legal representation, policy advocacy, and community-based activities. We seek out groups focused on pursuing social and economic justice that do not have ready access to other funding sources.
Pro Bono Initiatives Focused on Racial Equality
Building on our existing pro bono program, we established new firmwide initiatives that address racial inequality in policing, the criminal justice system, and economic justice. We work with other law firms to address issues of systemic racism through the newly formed Law Firm Antiracism Alliance.
Civil Rights Legal Fellowships
A fellowship program for Perkins Coie associates, typically in their first year, to spend one year working in a civil rights organization or other organization that promotes racial equality.
Observance
Since 2020, we have recognized Juneteenth as an annual firmwide holiday. This is an opportunity for reflection, education, and service to promote racial equality.