Mission Statement

The objectives of the Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are to promote and advance the full and equal participation of attorneys of color and other diverse attorneys in the New York State Bar Association and in all sectors and at every level of the legal profession through research, education, fostering involvement and leadership development in NYSBA and other professional activities, and to promote knowledge of and respect for the profession in communities that historically have been excluded from the practice of law.

The Committee shall also foster the development of, monitor progress of and report on diversity initiatives of the Association, as well as partner with the Sections to continue to pursue enhanced diversity and inclusion in the Association, including among the leadership of the Association.

In conducting its work, the Committee shall consult with and engage Association leaders, other entities and individuals, including Sections of the New York State Bar Association, the New York State Conference of Bar Leaders, the Committee on Leadership Development, the Committee on Civil Rights, the Committee on Disability Rights, The Law, Youth & Citizenship Program, minority and women’s bar associations, and others with an interest in the Committee’s mission and activities.

January 21, 2022

Download the committee history here.

Committee Co-Chairs

Nihla F. Sikkander, Esq.
Dena M. DeFazio, Esq.

Online Community

Committee Roster

Resolution of the Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on the Bylaws provisions providing for diversity delegates and diversity members-at-large of the Executive Committee

Adopted by the House of Delegates on June 18, 2022


Diversity Report Cards

The New York State Bar Association is deeply committed to enhancing diversity at every level of participation within the association and the profession. Every two years, the Committee on Diversity and Inclusion prepares a diversity report card. This report card continues to highlight the need for raising the level of diversity awareness within the profession and increase opportunities for diverse attorneys to serve in Association leadership positions.

Read the NYSBA Diversity Plan


Resolution of the Committee on Diversity and Inclusion on Civility, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the Association, the Legal Profession, and Society at Large

Adopted by the House of Delegates on November 2, 2019

2.2 Baker Symposium - 23
CBMSHon.Kennedy
Diversity Awards-223
Diversity Reception-267

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