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Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, & Belonging

Bates White is deeply committed to fostering and maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive, welcoming culture. We strive to create an environment where everyone is included and feels a sense of belonging—a place where they are accepted, comfortable, and supported. We deliver on our commitment by respecting and empowering our people, trusting their judgment, and celebrating their uniqueness.

    
 
 

Diversity and inclusion is, and always has been, a priority.

  • Two young women and one young man standing together and smiling at the camera. They are holding rainbow-colored Pride flags.
  • Two women in robes with East Asian symbols. They are smiling and standing behind a table clad with food and a rice cooker.

“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, Partner

What diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging means to our employees

  • A young woman stands outside, smiling at the camera, in front of a faded background of green trees.

    We create opportunities for employees to be heard, and leadership listens and responds

    “Senior leadership welcomes diverse perspectives and cultivates a safe environment to ask challenging questions.”

    Ranier Barrett, Consultant I

  • 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

  • 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

  • The Women’s Network offers a space to build and strengthen connections

    “I love attending Women’s Network drop-in breakfasts because it allows me to have candid conversations and foster relationships across the firm at all levels.“ 

    Catherine Tang, Manager

How we are doing it

Bates White is committed to cultivating a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive workplace through formal and informal programs. Our BWProud, Diversity-Inclusion Council, International Network, and Women’s Network sponsor educational seminars to increase understanding of diversity issues, implement training programs to increase cultural humility, enhance work relationships, and share cultural experiences.

  • BWProud

    BWProud

    BWProud represents LGBTQ+ employees, allies, and supporters with education, community service, and resources.

  • Diversity-Inclusion Council

    Diversity-Inclusion Council

    Our Diversity-Inclusion Council implements programs that advance the firm’s commitment to a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive environment.

  • Womens Network

    Womens Network

    The Women’s Network provides a platform to address issues of interest to staff broadly and women specifically.

  • International Network

    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

  • January 2025Snack & Chat—Navigating new cultural landscapes

    Colleagues shared challenges when moving to a new place.

    A smiling young man and woman stand next to a screen titled “Snack & Chat: Navigating new cultural landscapes—domestic and abroad.”
  • January 2025Women’s Network forms mentorship pods

    Every year, the Women’s Network creates mentorship groups to foster connections across the firm.

    A group of women is gathered around a table. Some of in the middle of conversation, while others are smiling at the camera. Other tables behind them are also gathered around by people.
  • May 2024Firm holds annual DEI&B town hall

    At this event, leadership reported on our strategic goals and celebrated our DEI&B networks.

    Three smiling young women sit behind a table, topped with a microphone. The screen behind them reads: "DEI&B Town Hall."
  • June 2024Celebrating Pride

    BWProud held an educational program, sponsored a trivia contest, and volunteered at SMYAL, an organization that supports LGBTQ+ youth.

    A group of men and women stand together smiling at the camera; several of them are holding rainbow-colored Pride flags.

Grow your career at Bates White

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