Overview
Chicago, June 15, 2020 – McDermott Will & Emery Chairman Ira Coleman issued the following statement to our Firm this evening:
Dear Colleagues,
During our calls last week, we discussed this pivotal moment as our nation rises up to fight for racial equality and social justice. The support that everyone expressed in taking action was tremendous. Our teams are developing coordinated plans for how we can best leverage our collective time, talent and resources to make a positive difference, both within McDermott and beyond. In the coming days and weeks, we will be announcing various initiatives, recognizing that this requires a deep and sustained commitment. To begin, however, we will take the opportunity this Friday, June 19, to recognize Juneteenth, the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African American was freed. To honor the occasion, reflect upon its importance, and consider how we can each play a role in creating a more equal society, we will close all of our US offices for the day.
We understand that, for many colleagues, this historic day was not something that was regularly taught in schools or widely acknowledged in our communities. But, in the spirit of #AlwaysBetter, when we know better, we do better. Going forward, we expect to mark the day with events, such as community service, but this year is anything but ordinary—and we believe there is an added importance of observing it in this unique way.
So, again, please join me this Juneteenth to contemplate the day’s history and meaning, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to making a positive, enduring change.
Best,
Ira Coleman
Chairman
About McDermott
McDermott Will & Emery partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers and shape markets. With more than 20 locations on three continents, our team works seamlessly across practices, industries and geographies to deliver highly effective—and often unexpected—solutions that propel success. More than 1,100 lawyers strong, we bring our personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for our clients and the people they serve.
