Lockridge Grindal Nauen is committed to embracing and reflecting the diversity of the clients we serve and our community. LGN recognizes our firm is stronger when we include all individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, or physical ability.
This commitment has long been part of our mission. In 2012, LGN was the first law firm to publicly oppose the proposed state constitutional amendment that would have banned same-sex marriage in Minnesota, and we collaborated with Minnesotans United for All Families on the “Vote No” campaign. Our efforts in promoting gender diversity within the legal profession has earned us recognition from Working Mother and Law360. In 2021, LGN adopted an anti-racism resolution describing our vision and actions to further our commitment to an inclusive work environment, legal profession, and society. These milestones reflect our broad, ongoing efforts to ensure how we work aligns with what we believe.
We continue to build on this foundation through ongoing initiatives, such as:
- DEI Committee that actively promotes diversity and inclusion across all levels of our firm and fosters a culture of inclusion and belonging for everyone.
- Hiring practices that prioritize broad outreach and equal access to opportunities;
- Participation in law student clerkship and mentorship programs focused on students of all backgrounds;
- Firm-wide recognition of Juneteenth as a paid holiday;
- A pro bono policy that supports providing legal work at no cost so that all people have access to quality legal representation;
- Wellness Committee that works to support the occupational, emotional, physical, and intellectual health of all members of the firm;
- Multiple professional training sessions for employees on elimination of bias; and
- A book discussion group that focuses on reading fiction and nonfiction that expands our worldview and sparks discussion. Past selections include James by Percival Everett, Life on Delay by John Hendrickson, The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich, and Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson.
Our commitment is ongoing, with annual review of our DEI initiatives, and firm-wide dedication to building an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and supported.
