Wiley Releases 2021 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report

February 22, 2022

Washington, DC – Wiley, a preeminent DC law firm, released its 2021 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Report, highlighting significant progress in firmwide efforts.

“Wiley is committed to elevating and amplifying the voices that reflect the diversity and inclusiveness of our communities and the legal profession, and we’re proud to have achieved so many of our 2021 goals,” said Chief Diversity Officer Rashida MacMurray-Abdullah. “Through these efforts, we have thrived together in celebrating and supporting the talent, unique perspectives, and contributions of each member of our Wiley team.”

The most noteworthy accomplishments for 2021, reflecting the firm’s deep-rooted commitment to DEI, include:

• Launching a dedicated DEI Department last year and exploring opportunities to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of the firm’s day-to-day culture.
• Announcing that for the second year in a row, more than 50% of the firm’s partner promotions were women and over 50% of its 2021 fall associate class were women, racially and ethnically diverse, or LGBTQ+.
• Having, firmwide, over 30% of Wiley partners who are women, racially and ethnically diverse, or LGBTQ+, a 5% increase from 2020.
• Increasing the percentage of Black attorneys firmwide last year by 67%.
• Enhancing professional development programs within the firm and workload assignment oversight to increase the diversity of client teams within practices.
• Advancing Wiley’s DEI efforts through pro bono initiatives, charitable giving, and expanded client engagement.

“We are proud of the progress we made in 2021,” said Managing Partner Peter D. Shields. “Inclusion is critical to our culture, and last year we helped strengthen that foundation. This year our focus includes collaborating with clients and organizations on DEI efforts in our community.”

This year, the firm will leverage those efforts through the “2022 Be An Ally at Wiley” campaign, creating opportunities for courageous conversations about bias, privilege, anti-racism, sponsorship, and belonging. Wiley will also continue to strengthen its partnerships with allies outside the firm, including collaborating with clients on DEI initiatives and working with educators, universities, and organizations.