News and Information
May 26, 2009
Diversity Initiative Frequently Asked Questions
VSB Task Force on Diversity
May 26, 2009
The Virginia State Bar’s Diversity Task Force has recommended proposals that would broaden the agency’s responsibilities to include promotion of diversity in the legal profession. The proposals can be found at
http://www.vsb.org/site/news/item/diversity/. The Diversity Task Force offers the following answers to frequently asked questions.
1. Why is there not a more specific definition of "diversity?" Answer: The term “diversity” has a dynamic meaning that changes as the demographics of Virginians change. Apart from differences in race, color, gender, national origin, religion, age, citizenship, and geography, to mention a few, the public and our profession will experience changes in thought, culture, and beliefs. These demographics are constantly in flux. Defining “diversity” based on current differences would limit its application to future changes, and likewise restrict or limit the Bar’s consideration of and response to such changes. 2. Is this an "affirmative action" initiative?
Answer: No. This initiative is founded on universal inclusion, not preferential treatment or exclusion. Further, there are no barriers to participation in the Conference; all members in good standing with the Bar are invited to participate.
3. Will State Bar funds be used for the Diversity Conference and its projects and activities?
Answer: No. The Conference will be self-funded and self-supporting. After it is established, the Conference will be funded for its development, operation, and maintenance through outside funds and grants obtained through Conference initiatives.4. Is the designation of a seat on Bar Council and the Executive Committee a "quota" or a "preference?"
Answer: No. The Diversity Conference would be treated no differently than the existing three Conferences. The Bar currently affords Bar Council and Executive Committee membership to a designee of the youngest members of the Bar (Young Lawyers Conference), the oldest members of the Bar (Senior Lawyers Conference), and representatives of local bar associations in Virginia (Conference of Local Bar Associations). In contrast, the Diversity Conference designee represents all members of the Bar in good standing who wish to join and participate, without regard to age or membership in a local bar association. 5. What will the Diversity Conference do?Answer: Foremost, the Conference will serve as a clearinghouse and forum for all members of the Bar (i) to exchange information and input regarding the changing demographics and needs of the public and our profession, and (ii) to develop and promote programs, initiatives, and policies for sponsorship by the Conference responsive to such changes. 6. Why should the Virginia State Bar do this?
Answer: The Supreme Court has charged the Bar with the powers necessary to (i) “promote reforms in . . . the judicial system that are intended to improve the quality and fairness of the system,” (ii) “improve the quality of the legal services made available to the people of Virginia,” and (iii) “encourage higher and better education for membership in the profession.” Rules of Court, Part 6, Section IV, ¶ 9(j). As the only entity or organization that represents all lawyers in Virginia, the Bar is uniquely situated and empowered to pursue these aspirational goals. Mindful of the dynamic demographics of the public and our profession, the Conference will consider and propose programs to be sponsored by the Conference or actions to be taken by the Bar to further these goals. The Conference’s activities will enhance the Bar’s efforts to promote a legal system that is responsive to all of the needs of all of the people of Virginia.