Affirmative Action/Diversity

Seyfarth Shaw’s affirmative action practice was launched 40 years ago with the issuance of executive Order 11246, which prohibited employment discrimination based on race, color, religion or national origin (and later, gender).  The Order also required employers receiving federal contracts to take affirmative action to promote equal opportunity for women and minorities and to create and implement an affirmative action programs.  The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (“OFCCP”) was tasked with monitoring compliance with this requirement.

As a firm with a nationally recognized labor and employment practice, Seyfarth Shaw is a firm of choice for clients seeking counsel in complying with this order, the later regulatory refinements to it, and the litigation which ensues from it.  We also counsel clients regarding all state and municipal affirmative action requirements.  We created an Affirmative Action Consulting Team, which operates as a distinct consulting unit within our labor and employment practice. This team is comprised of over two dozen seasoned labor and employment attorneys.  Other team members include highly experienced affirmative action professionals (non-attorneys) who are dedicated to providing our clients with best-in-class counsel regarding affirmative action program and plan development, compliance issues, including OFCCP compliance reviews, and advice regarding best practices in affirmative action and diversity.

Diversity Assessment and Study

Our diversity practice grows out of our extensive involvement in issues regarding minority and female representation.  In this practice, we conduct sophisticated analyses and assessments to help our clients measure their progress in this critical business objective.  We provide counsel and advice about diversity best practices and change management and are especially effective in communications with leadership.