Through its dedication to justice and equality under the rule of law, the legal profession has often served as a beacon of change for the larger society. Unfortunately, the profession itself has sometimes reflected the prejudices and injustices of the society at large. Indeed, there is a long history within the legal profession of discrimination against minorities, a sad legacy whose lingering effects can still be felt.
It is a commonplace observation that no profession benefits from diversity as much as the legal profession. Inclusiveness within the profession promotes public confidence in the law. Without a diverse bench and bar, respect for the rule of law is weakened as citizens see themselves as outsiders, excluded and alienated from the central functioning of the justice system. Diversity in the legal profession brings greater sensitivity to the particular legal problems faced by minorities and broadens the ability of the profession to provide representation to those communities that have historically been underrepresented. A diverse bar serves a representative function in our democracy by ensuring that the various branches of government reflect the community at large. In this manner, diversity also serves a legitimatizing function by promoting confidence in our democratic institutions.
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