Being the Change

 This guest post is courtesy of Peyton N. Farley, current Family Law student and Regent Law 2022 Graduate: 

 

A brief walk through most law schools, law firms, and courthouses would likely lead someone to the same conclusion, the need for more diversity in the legal profession. According the American Bar Association, while 85% of all lawyers in the United States are non-hispanic, approximately 60% of all U.S residents were of the same demographic. In addition, according to the 2020 ABA Model Survey report, approximately 70% of law firm leaders were white men. Shockingly, according to the 2020 ABA Demographics report, 80% of all federal judges were white. The lack of diversity amongst law schools, law firms, and judges can lead to distrust of the legal system and may cause some to question if justice is really guaranteed for all. 

Although recognizing the need for more diversity amongst the legal profession is key, it is not enough to simply recognize the issue. Change requires action. As a law student, I was determined to be the change I wanted to see in the future. I served as a law student mentor for The Bridge Builders Esq. National Mentorship Program and participated in Regent University's Black Law Student Association. However, one of my greatest contributions to inspire change was the opportunity to co-author a Law Review Article titled Empowering Black Wealth in America in the Shadow of the Tulsa Race Massacre, published by the Tulsa L. Rev. In this article, my co-authors and I highlighted the tragedy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and offered solutions to empowering black wealth in the future. 

As a soon to be Christian Leader who Changes the World, I understand the importance of change starting with me. 1 Timothy 4:12 instructs believers not to "let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." As a minority law student, and soon to be lawyer, it is not only important that I set an example for other minority law students, but also hold the door open for more minority students to succeed.

The Bible tells us that we are each fearfully and wonderfully made and people of all backgrounds are important to the trust, growth, and belief in the future of the legal system.  By increasing the number of minorities in law, the profession will gain valuable perspectives, insights, and talents that can help develop our justice system.