Over the past several months, we have all witnessed the protests surrounding police misconduct and racial injustice. The firm has historically avoided taking any affirmative stand on political issues. However, what we have come to realize as a result of these recent events is that the struggle for racial justice concerns a more fundamental issue regarding the protection of human rights. Accordingly, we are called upon, individually and collectively, as members of our civil society and particularly as members of the legal profession, to support equal justice under law for all persons, especially African Americans, who have faced discrimination and disparate treatment when engaged in our legal processes. Moreover, we are called upon to support those who have suffered from the effects of racial bias, discrimination and violations of human rights in the larger society. We specifically acknowledge that Black Lives Matter, and we commit to support efforts to address and effect real change to assure that “equal protection under the law” is not a mere catchphrase. We intend to explore how we can help to make these ideals reality in the coming weeks and months and to engage with political leaders, judges, other legal professionals in the community to try to bring about lasting positive change.

Pugh Accardo reaffirms its commitment to the values of equal treatment and mutual respect for everyone. We join and support our fellow Americans in seeking meaningful reform and change against the scourge of racism. We will be mindful and intentional in ensuring that we, as a law firm, seek diversity and inclusion.