Statement from the Leadership of the ABA Business Law Section

On behalf of the Business Law Section leadership, we condemn the racist verbal and physical attacks, including assault and murder, of Asians, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. These actions are outrageous and unacceptable in a civil society. We take this moment to express our deep sadness about the recent murders of six Asian Women in Atlanta, and our disgust at the frequent and widespread abuse to which members of the AAPI community have been subjected. Consistent with our belief in the rule of law and the respect and equal treatment deserved by all individuals and groups, we stand in solidarity with the AAPI community, which includes many valued friends, neighbors and colleagues.

Racism has always been, and continues to be, one of the most pressing issues that the United States faces. In support of all AAPI individuals and communities, we in the Business Law Section commit to taking actions to stop racially motivated attacks and violence. We start by recognizing the shameful and long-standing history of racism against the AAPI community across American society. And then we work actively to make change.

Last year, in the wake of the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless other black men and women, we affirmed the Business Law Section's support of the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter movement. We also committed, and we recommit today, to enhanced efforts to eliminate systemic racism and advocate for needed legal reforms.

The commitments made last year resulted in the recent adoption by the Business Law Section's governing Council of a detailed Social Justice Action Plan. This Plan identifies specific steps and goals for the Section and its committees and other groups across a wide range of areas, to: achieve greater equality and social justice in our society; promote diversity and inclusion, within and beyond the legal profession; and advocate for needed legal reforms.

We remain committed to furthering diversity and inclusion within the Section and the legal profession and addressing the root causes of inequality and social injustice experienced by members of the AAPI community, other persons of color and other individuals and groups subjected to hate and harm due to racism and discrimination. As legal professionals, it is our responsibility to advance justice and support the rule of law. We will continue to work to create an inclusive environment for all members and eliminate the racial biases that unduly burden the lives of too many.

We welcome your comments, input and ideas. To support the Section in its mission to create a more equal and just society, to achieve needed legal reforms, and advance diversity, equity and inclusion within the legal profession, please send suggestions and information here.