(CHICAGO) Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP was lauded as one of the top Illinois law firms for efforts in the area of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) equality according to the results of the Equality Illinois 2014 Law Firm Survey. This is the second consecutive year that Katten has been given this recognition.
"We have always worked to ensure Katten promotes and respects inclusion and diversity in the workplace and we are committed to implementing programs and benefits to reflect that," said Vincent A.F. Sergi, Katten Chairman.
Katten offers progressive work benefits including healthcare, leave and other assistance that extend to same-sex partners including tax gross-ups for those in states without marriage equality so that LGBT employees in those states can cover same-gender partners and their children without adverse tax impact.
The firm's LGBT Coalition helps promote a diverse culture in the firm related to sexual orientation and gender identity; assists with identifying innovative programs and initiatives the firm can take part in; and helps foster an inclusive environment for LGBT attorneys and new recruits.
"Katten provides support to its LGBT attorneys and consistently sponsors networking events and other significant community events," said Daniel Lange, Katten partner and co-chair of the LGBT Coalition. "The firm actively recruits qualified LGBT candidates and encourages an inclusive environment through employee training and diversity awareness initiatives."
Katten has been proud to sponsor the Human Rights Campaign's annual dinner gala, the LGBT-focused 2013 production of Teddy Ferrara at the Goodman Theatre, the 2014 Equality Illinois Annual Dinner, Lambda Legal's 2014 Bon Foster event and the Lavender Law Conference and Career Fair.
Katten has represented, on a pro bono basis, LGBT individuals that have been victimized because of their sexual orientation in civil suits under the Illinois Hate Crime Act, as well as other underserved diverse populations throughout the country. Additionally, Katten's Supplier Diversity Program actively promotes the use of businesses that are owned and operated by minorities, women, LGBT individuals, persons with disabilities and other diverse individuals.
Top firms were recognized at Equality Illinois' Raising the Bar Recognition event on August 13 in Chicago and also in the publication Raising the Bar: Law Firms Leading the Way to LGBT Equality, which highlights the survey findings and includes best practices for firms seeking to increase their workplace diversity and equality.
