STRONGER Together-David Boyles

“When someone opens up to you and says, 'This has been my experience,' the best approach is to listen to that experience and allow them to tell their story without comment or judgment.”

- David Boyles, Associate, Cincinnati, OH


We asked David: What do you believe is the formula for addressing LGBTQ+ issues within the legal industry while maintaining a solid, inclusive community that brings all of us together? 

I think the key to making progress and lasting change is the ability to listen.  Each of us has a different perspective and unique lived experience.  We can’t assume that we know what other people are going through—even when we are part of the same community. When someone opens up to you and says, “This has been my experience,” the best approach is to listen to that experience and allow them to tell their story without comment or judgment.

I believe Dinsmore has given a voice to many of the minority attorneys in the firm through the formation of its various affinity groups and has listened to the experience and concerns of those affinity group members through real engagement by firm leadership. The firm has also used that feedback to take meaningful action by implementing policy changes to address specific concerns.  These steps were pivotal in ensuring each of us feels a sense of belonging and are empowered to use our voices when issues arise.  The sense of community at the firm branches out into what makes the celebration of Pride so important. It is an affirmation of being able to live my fully authentic self in every part of life.