The tragic death of George Floyd brings back into focus that our country must address the problems of social and legal injustice, racism, and prejudice, wherever and however they may exist. This heartbreaking situation, coupled with the disparate impact of the COVID-19 crisis, highlights the inequities that African American and other diverse communities continue to face every day. It also strengthens Taft’s determination and commitment to do more as individuals, as a firm, and with our communities.

Establishing true “freedom” requires a fairness of our justice systems, equal social and economic opportunity, and an absence of oppression. Taft is a thought leader in the United States legal industry, having worked with great resolve to provide a modern workplace culture that embraces that type of freedom by promoting fairness, diversity, and equal opportunity for all of our employees. Because of our position of leadership, we have an enhanced opportunity and an inherent responsibility to do more.

This message is a challenge and a call to action for Taft to re-dedicate and enhance its efforts in addressing these issues. That will start with an open dialogue among all members of our Taft family, with the ultimate goal of developing effective, tangible, and enduring solutions. We also will continue to partner with others in the communities where we work and live in finding sustainable solutions to address the pervasive and systemic socio-economic issues that prevent this country from being “One America.”

We believe our country can and must do better. So will Taft.

Robert J. Hicks Chairman and Managing Partner	Adrian D. Thompson Chief Diversity Officer, Co-Partner in Charge, Cleveland