The month of June is dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ voices, celebrating LGBTQ culture, and advocating for LGBTQ rights. It’s also a time to remember the lives of community members impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the bigotry and intolerance still pervasive in much of society. As we celebrate and reflect on the progress made, we also recognize that the battle for LGBTQ rights is ongoing.
Bird Marella has a long history recognizing PRIDE and standing up for the LGBTQ community. In the 90s, we provided sensitivity training to companies and law firms in an era where expressing your true self could easily (and legally) end your career. More recently, our firm challenged and won a case against a well-known, faith-based university when it failed to protect a gay student who was brutally attacked because of his sexuality. On a pro bono basis, we also represented the Emory Vaccine Clinic, a leading HIV research institution, when it was sued in connection with its fundraising initiative.
Bird Marella understands that actions speak louder than words. This year, the firm is furthering its commitment to advocating for equality by making a sponsorship commitment to Lambda Legal — a national, non-profit organization that is committed to the full recognition of the civil rights for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and those living with HIV. We’re committed to assisting on a pro bono basis as well. Locally, the firm is continuing its long-standing support of Bet Tzedek and its Rapid Response Team to provide transgender legal services. Founded in 1974, Bet Tzedek pursues equal justice for all by providing high-quality, free legal services to low-income, disabled and elderly people of all racial and religious backgrounds.
Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion has been one of Bird Marella’s priorities for four decades. To learn more about the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives, please click here.
We invite you to consider supporting Lambda Legal by clicking here, and Bet Tzedek by clicking here.