Even though the Emancipation Proclamation came into effect in 1863, enslaved Black people in Texas were not freed until June 19, 1865. This is how we came to have the day “Juneteenth,” as it represents the actual date, June nineteenth.

In this month’s diversity newsletter, “JUNETEENTH: A Continuing Story of Perseverance,” associate Alicia D. Frison discusses the history behind one of the most pivotal holidays in African-American culture and shares her personal experience celebrating it. As she says, “Summer means popsicles, skating on the pavement, and festivals. For me, summer meant the nonstop fun of celebrating Juneteenth with parades, soul food, and musical performances all month long commemorating the legacy of my ancestors.”

Read “JUNETEENTH: A Continuing Story of Perseverance >

MBLB’S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

MBLB strives to be a diverse law firm. Our goal is to create and maintain an environment that welcomes and fosters mutual respect for different perspectives, backgrounds and life experiences regardless of gender, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age or disability. We are committed to ensuring that professional growth and advancement are based on capability and performance and recognize that a diverse workforce enriches our experiences and lends to our success. We value and support all who positively contribute to our practice and our community.

MBLB’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee members include members Alan Brackett, Mike Parks, Dan Sullivan and Simone Yoder, along with associate Taylor Tran.

Among the initiatives the DE&I Committee has launched is the Affinity newsletter, which allows diverse voices and points of view to be shared, both within our firm and externally. The newsletter is intended to educate, particularly on historical diversity issues and their impact on or by the law. While these articles provide valuable perspective, they are not intended to espouse a position by the firm.

Let’s start a conversation!