We create opportunities for employees to be heard, and leadership listens and responds
“I am comfortable raising challenging questions with senior leadership and know that my ideas will be respected and heard.”
Assaph Aharoni, Principal
Diversity and inclusion is, and always has been, a priority.
“We understand and appreciate the value of differing backgrounds, opinions, and experiences. This diversity improves our creativity, provides greater perspective, and enables more thoughtful decisions.”
Charles Bates, Chairman and Partner
What diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging means to our employees
International colleagues bring perspectives that help us address challenging questions
"When working through complex questions, the diversity of ideas and experiences brought by our international colleagues helps us provide creative and thoughtful solutions."
David DeRamus, Partner
The Women’s Network offers a space to build and strengthen connections
"I love attending Women’s Network drop-in lunches because it allows me to have candid conversations and foster relationships across the firm at all levels."
Catherine Tang, Manager
Bates White fosters an environment where individuals feel safe, respected, and comfortable being themselves
“I am empowered to show up authentically, bring my full potential to work, and connect with our LGBTQ+ community through BWProud.”
Sam Sherman, Senior Consultant
How we are doing it
Bates White is committed to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace through formal and informal programs. Our BWProud, Diversity-Inclusion Council, International Network, and Women’s Network sponsor educational seminars to increase awareness of diversity issues, implement training programs to eliminate unconscious bias and increase cultural humility, and provide ways to build relationships and share cultural experiences.
BWProud
BWProud represents LGBTQ+ employees, allies, and supporters with education, community service, and resources.
Diversity-Inclusion Council
Our Diversity-Inclusion Council ensures that diversity and inclusion are supported in all aspects of firm operations.
Womens Network
The Women’s Network provides a platform to address issues of interest to staff broadly and women specifically.
International Network
This network offers a way for international colleagues to support each other and provide opportunities for all employees to understand international challenges and celebrate our diverse cultures.
Highlights
- June 2024Celebrating Pride
BWProud held an educational program, sponsored a trivia contest, and volunteered at SMYAL, an organization that supports LGBTQ+ youth.
- May 2024Celebrating spring festivals
Our International Network hosted a festival celebrating six spring holidays from around the world.
- February 2024Bates White hosts GW Women in Business
The Women's Network sponsored an event showcasing the diversity of career paths at the firm.
- May 2024Firm holds annual DEI&B town hall
At this event, leadership reported on our strategic goals and celebrated our DEI&B networks.
- February 2024Bates White celebrates Black History Month
To commemorate Black History Month, colleagues held a trivia event to raise money for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, sponsored an education program, and highlighted notable people and events.
