The recruitment process at Magazine Luiza, which is exclusively for black candidates, has sparked significant discussion and highlighted the ongoing resistance towards inclusion efforts in Brazil. This issue is also evident in the legal field, where black representation in prominent positions remains low, with just 1% of lawyers in major law firms being black according to a 2019 survey. In light of Black Awareness Month, we reflect on the current status of black participation in advocacy and discuss strategies to enhance diversity in the sector, considering the challenges faced by the black population in the labor market in Brazil.
- Less than 5% of the top 500 companies in the nation are led by individuals who are black.
- However, informal employment accounts for the majority within this population.
- In some instances, the income gap between white and black individuals can be as high as 73%.
- Black individuals are nearly twice as likely as white individuals to be underutilized in the labor market.
The evolution of the legal profession in the nation
Legal courses in Brazil were first proposed in 1823 by José Feliciano Fernandes Pinheiro, a constituent deputy. Although the idea was not immediately approved, the concept of specialized legal studies began to take shape. This led to the establishment of the Course of Juridical and Social Sciences in 1828 at the Academy of São Paulo, marking the beginning of legal education in the country.
Luis Gama, the first black lawyer in Brazil, lived a long time ago. Despite efforts by law firms to promote diversity and inclusion, there remains a significant gap between the number of black Brazilians and their representation in the legal field. Census data shows that 55% of Brazilians are black or brown, but only 1% of lawyers in major law firms are black.
Tips for legal firms seeking increased diversity.
One way to promote inclusion in university courses is through the implementation of quotas. Law no. 12,711, also known as the Quota Law, reserves spots in educational institutions based on racial and social criteria. However, simply having legislation in place is not enough, as efforts must be made to provide access to opportunities beyond entry-level positions. To enhance diversity in the legal field, proactive measures such as establishing discussion forums within law offices can help create an inclusive environment.
- Why is it of such significance?
- What is my societal responsibility regarding this topic?
Black advocacy professionals face various differences and challenges in advancing their careers, including the importance of considering inclusion in selection processes at all levels. It is beneficial to recruit early-career professionals from black university collectives and offer external affirmative actions like preparatory courses. Legal offices should take proactive steps to support diversity through initiatives that promote deconstruction and learning, aiming to combat the harmful effects of racism and prejudice. Building a more equal legal system requires reflection and action rather than relying solely on existing legal frameworks. The month of black consciousness serves as an opportune time to further explore diversity and inclusion efforts. If you’d like to delve deeper into this topic, check out our blog for more insights.
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