Stand up for the profession
I attended the Stonewall Workplace Conference in London recently. The annual gathering sees some 600 representatives from a wide range of public and private organisations come together to share best practice on achieving equality.
It has spawned other events in Wales, Scotland and Manchester, which features leaders from the likes of Barclays, J.P. Morgan and the Armed Forces. As well as inspiring those present to celebrate the diversity they have in their organisations, it recognises how far there is still to go in many sectors.
The legal sector is one of those able to celebrate what has already been achieved. Lawyers and law firms were well represented at the event and last month it was reported that there were a record ten law firms in the list of top 100 employers in Stonewall's annual equality index.
But aside from the familiar names and faces representing magic and silver circle firms, it was encouraging to see delegates from less-obvious corners of the profession including smaller firms, ABSs and local authority employers, striving to improve and learn from their peers.
In fact, a keynote speech was given by Peter Lewis, CEO of the Crown Prosecution Service, who, despite facing criticism over the recent prosecution of MP Nigel Evans (see page 8) acknowledged that the CPS has a job to do as both employer and principal prosecutor. He recognises its role in promoting authenticity, consistency, striving for a safe, tolerant and just society, and combating hate crime.
As CEO, he also recognised the importance of the CPS being seen to be appropriately diverse and reflective of the community it serves.
What always impresses me is the willingness and openness with which delegates and speakers share their experiences, for better and for worse. As an employment lawyer, I see and hear all too often the hurt and harm that discrimination, victimisation and bullying can do, not only to the individuals being attacked, but also to their colleagues and to businesses generally. Events such as Stonewall’s conference really do make a difference, but that difference should not be restricted to those able to attend.
Stonewall has a history of strong and successful campaigning, but just because the laws on equal marriage have changed doesn’t mean the hard work is over. The new No Bystanders campaign, voiced by the charity’s co-founder, Sir Ian McKellen, turns the table on verbal abuse and bullying, asking us all to speak out and stop it wherever we see it.
Unfortunately, not only does verbal bullying and abusive behaviour take place on the streets, it happens increasingly online and in our own workplaces. Whether it isa throwaway comment or a vicious attack, the impact can be serious across age, gender, disability, belief or sexual orientation. It's not just about the stereotypical white-van man, or remote voice from on top of a scaffold. This is something we all come into contact with and we can all respond to in some way.
I would encourage all SJ readers to join Stonewall in stamping out bullying and teasing wherever they see it. Don’t be a bystander. Stand up for the profession, and refuse to tolerate hateful language in or out of the office.