Seyfarth Launches All Abilities Affinity Group, Expands Diversity & Inclusion Efforts

CHICAGO and NEW YORK (November 9, 2017) -- Seyfarth Shaw LLP announced today the expansion of its Diversity & Inclusion Action Team’s affinity group program, launching the All Abilities Affinity Group, which is dedicated to developing the talent of all, innovating solutions to access, and empowering the disability community and its allies.

The first law firm affinity group designed for those of all abilities, Seyfarth All Abilities is led by New York partner Loren Gesinsky and Chicago associate Kevin Fritz. At launch, Seyfarth All Abilities includes more than 50 lawyers across the firm and represents the firm’s sixth affinity group, joining those for African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic, LGBT, and women’s interests.

“Our affinity groups play a key role in expanding the footprint of our diversity efforts and creating a more inclusive organization,” said Pete Miller, Seyfarth’s chair and managing partner. “Our All Abilities group’s universal mission connects all of our affinity groups together, providing a new and powerful platform for change.”

“We are constantly exploring ways to innovate and increase diversity and inclusion at the firm,” explained Laura Maechtlen, co-chair of Seyfarth’s Diversity & Inclusion Action Team. “Seyfarth All Abilities presents a unique opportunity for our lawyers to collaborate on accessibility issues that directly impact our colleagues and communities.”

Beyond the talent of the firm, Seyfarth All Abilities will also focus externally, working closely with clients and allied organizations to advocate for disability awareness and greater accessibility.

“Building on the firm’s longstanding partnership with Best Buddies, we have seen firsthand how taking a lead role as an organization can have a major impact in the disability community,” said Lisa Damon, Seyfarth partner and a founding member of Seyfarth All Abilities. “We’re proud to bring that same energy and dedication to our own efforts and help increase our collective impact.”