Reclaiming narratives – Black History Month 2024
Throughout October, we’ll shine a spotlight on the stories of black solicitors, acknowledging and appreciating their contributions to the profession and wider society.
We’ll share resources to empower and educate our members on how we can continue to strive for progress and make real and lasting change.
Data from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in 2023 shows that 19% of solicitors are from a black, Asian and minority ethnic background, up from 18% in 2021. 3% of those solicitors are black.
While we welcome the improvement, there is more we can do to improve the recruitment and retention of black solicitors.
We proud to share the stories of black solicitors, rightfully recognising their contributions to the profession:
- I. Stephanie Boyce and her reflections on her term as our first black president
- Angela Jackman KC (Hon) and Mary Osofisan, two solicitors from different generations discuss their experiences as black women in the profession
- Karl Brown, partner at Clark Willmott and social mobility ambassador
- Joan Scott, an in-house commercial lawyer who is determined to leave the legal profession more diverse and inclusive than the industry she entered
This year, we will also be sharing the story of Pauline Campbell, a 2024 Legal Hero, in-house lawyer and social justice champion.
We hope these stories not only highlight black solicitors’ contributions to the profession but also show a new generation of black and minority ethnic aspiring lawyers that they can succeed in the legal profession.
Our president Nick Emmerson said: “the journey to a legal career can be a daunting experience for all aspiring solicitors.
“For an ethnic minority student, the extremely competitive environment may feel even more overwhelming, especially with the added challenging of having to overcome barriers often based on assumptions and lack of knowledge.
“Employers have begun to realise they could be missing out on a huge talent pool and are increasingly committed to recruiting candidates who can help shape a dynamic and diverse workforce.”
Explore our resources
We’re pushing for change and progress because, like you, we believe that a diverse and inclusive profession is a resilient one.
Explore our ethnicity pay gap guidance and find out how to start reporting.
Discover our guide to race and ethnicity terminology and language.
Innovation flourishes when people are welcomed, encouraged and supported to contribute their unique perspectives.
Diversity and inclusivity give firms and organisations the competitive edge they need to attract and retain the best talent.