As we watch the trial of Derek Chauvin, live or later, on our computers, phones, and televisions, we see our profession stepping up to ensure that the judicial system performs at its highest level. This is what we do. We tell traumatic stories and hear them. As our state is in the spotlight, traumatic images and stories flow into our conscious and unconscious, and everyone is talking about it.
In her article “M
aintaining Professionalism In The Age of Black Death Is….A Lot,” https://medium.com/@shenequagolding/maintaining-professionalism-in-the-age-of-black-death-is-a-lot-5eaec5e17585, Shenequa Golding describes the difficulty of black professionals and other professionals of color in these times. Professionals who have been recruited for the diversity they bring feel expected to leave it at the door after another instance of race-based violence or reminders, as we are seeing in the news this spring.
The legal profession’s well-being movement is about having the support we need to do our best work. When race-based violence (or violence against any other group because of their differences) occurs, the playing field is no longer level. Those committed to enhancing well-being in their organizations must consider this impact. Those committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion must recognize this critical relationship and provide an environment where people are supported fully. If a colleague is suffering and we walk by, we contribute.
Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers is a resource to help you process how these traumas affect you and take steps to ask for and access the support you need. Call us. We can help.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay