Last year, 2025, was a year marked by change after decades of efforts and forward strides in the landscape of what had been previously universally known as Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI). Government challenges aimed at dozens of top-tier AmLaw firms as well as the FTC’s investigation and the subsequent dismantling of the acclaimed Diversity Lab and Mansfield Certification created an atmosphere of shock, dismay, and frustration.

In the wake of such a provoking year, questions abound. Did the efforts to improve the consideration and promotion of underrepresented groups to foster richness of talent within law firms cease? Have client demands dissipated for representation by underrepresented talent suddenly or does this demand continue? How do we safely and effectively work to promote an inclusive work environment?

While law firms addressed the government challenges as we observed the dismantling of Diversity Lab, law firms and recruiting professionals have been wondering, “what’s next?” and where do we go from here? The commitment to supporting a strong, inclusive and welcoming environment where talented professionals can best tackle the highest and most pressing client demands appears to be unwavering.

NALSC’s Belonging + Inclusion Committee regrouped earlier this year, refreshed and energized, with the goal of understanding what law firms are doing now, and how NALSC’s recruitment professionals can best support the continued demands for legal expertise. Our goal is to explore the next phase of DEI, of Belonging + Inclusion. We are working to foster greater collaboration, an inclusive community, open communication, and move into impactful actions. Together with NALSC’s Law Firm Advisory Committee, our goal is to open lines of communication between law firms and recruiting consultants, share information and ideas, explore new opportunities and continue to develop, improve, and grow together in this new landscape.

The NALSC community has always been a tremendously collaborative, capable, and welcoming network. We will not shy away from the tough questions, and we look for creative, effective solutions together. Stay tuned for updates and programming which will include virtual sessions, a panel discussion at the Spring 2027 NALSC conference, relevant roundtable discussions, affinity group networking, and more.

The B+I Committee values your support, participation, and ideas. Please join us for upcoming NALSC B+I programs!