Women Lawyers of Utah (WLU) and the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) were pleased to co-host an evening discussion with Justice Durham and friends on the future of diversity and inclusion in Utah, particularly as it relates to the retention of women in the legal profession. The event was held on July 17 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Federal Courthouse, in the Jury Assembly Room. Before beginning, WLU presented the Christine M. Durham Woman Lawyer of the Year Award to Jacey Skinner. This award recognizes an outstanding woman in the legal profession who exemplifies professionalism, excellence, and a dedication to furthering the opportunities for women in the law. Jacey Skinner has held a variety of senior leadership roles in Utah state government, and her expertise includes all areas of government related legal issues. In accepting the award, she spoke about the importance of having a supportive community and thanked WLU for providing that to her throughout her legal career.
Following the presentation of this award, Justice Durham introduced the topic by highlighting some of the grave issues Utah faces today in the context of equity, inclusion, diversity, and belonging – particularly in the legal profession. The panel was comprised of an incredible line-up of presenters which included Mickell Jimenez, Partner at Holland & Hart; Christina Jepson, Shareholder at Parsons Behle & Latimer; Andrea Martinez, Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney; and Kim Cordova, Partner at Brass & Cordova. Each panelist in turn spoke to the topics, highlighting that despite the challenges and legal action that law firms are being threatened with, there is still a lot that we can all do. They reiterated the business case for DEI, and spoke to the ways that incorporating equitable programs and initiatives can benefit all employees. They talked about the need to push ourselves and step outside of our comfort zones in order to be in places of influence and create better outcomes for other people. The panel was inspiring and left event attendees with great information and lots of resolve to continue to help Utah’s legal profession reach its full potential.
Christina Jepson provides information about the state of DEI in Utah’s legal profession
Justice Christine Durham engages with audience members
Jacey Skinner is presented with the Woman Lawyer of the Year Award
Andrea Martinez shares her insights during the panel
