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.

CLE_AGuidetoDIversityandInclusion_675
gradient circle (purple) gradient circle (green)

Connect with Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion