AGENDA: Tuesday, June 30, 11am EDT

We are in the midst of a pandemic and it will be a long recovery from COVID-19. Among the many issues is the reality that companies will continue to cut pay and lay more people off. Studies show that the choices they make will have a disparately negative impact on attorneys of color and women. This has far reaching consequences that go beyond the workplace. Access to good work is one thing, but the problem goes much deeper. Access to healthcare, and other vital resources, has long been in an issue. As recent events have demonstrated, we’ve reached a tipping point.

This panel will explore:

• How this pandemic has contributed to uncovering the disparity between marginalized and privileged groups
• How to make this an opportunity to have some difficult but necessary conversations
• Why it is important to double down on diversity and inclusion efforts, emphasizing a commitment to those values.
• How leadership in both law firms and companies can create a sense of community and belonging and why it is especially important during times of crisis.

Working remotely has created a new set of challenges for women and minorities especially those that are also in a caregiver role. Whether you are caring for children, elderly parents or just having a balanced work-life integration, COVID-19 has placed an even greater strain on those already trying to keep up with the demands of a successful career.

This panel will explore:

• Best practices for working remotely
• Why companies should support – not penalize – parents and caregivers now and in the future
• Realistic tips for achieving balance
• The silver lining: How the pandemic will change the way we work and create more opportunities for flexibility

Women often do not apply for a job or a promotion if they don’t check every box, whereas men regularly seek jobs for which they are only partially qualified. The challenge can be even more daunting when considering a dream job or career choice that is not part of the normal trajectory. While the virus has pushed us out of our comfort zones, it has also presented a unique opportunity to explore our options. Pursuing these options (whether it be a raise, a promotion or a nontraditional path) requires the confidence courage to see your own potential in order to go after what is important to you.

This panel will explore:

• Letting go of the past and finding new ways of adapting to the changes ahead
• Getting clear with what you really want and making the current climate work for you
• The ASK: Asking for what you want and knowing why you deserve
• The role of sponsors, mentors and allies in getting us closer to our goals
• How best to advocate for ourselves and others

Hear from The Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy, on how we can navigate through the current crisis and become agents for social change:

• How and why the COVID-19 virus brought us to a tipping point
• The reasons for the disproportionate impact on diverse populations 
• What institutions and individuals can do to address these disparities
• Allyship and Social Engineering

Interviewed by Robyn Frank, VP Diversity & General Counsel, CenterForce Conferences

By invitation-only on our new state of the art platform