STRONGER Together-Lee Stautberg on Allyship

“At Dinsmore, our aspirations, intentions, and actions surrounding diversity are to foster a community where attorneys, staff, clients, mentors, and anyone we connect with feel welcomed, appreciated, and valued.”

- Lee Stautberg, Partner/Ally, Cincinnati, OH


We asked Lee: 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?

When addressing issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, you cannot depend on a one-size-fits-all model.  Members of underrepresented groups need to know your response to any issue they are facing is coming from a place of sincerity and genuine interest in moving the needle. While there is no set formula, engaging in conversations, giving people the freedom to speak up and speak out to address unique LGBTQ+ issues, is a great start. In my view, achieving true equity and inclusion lies heavily on individuals feeling and really being free to be their authentic selves in any setting.

At Dinsmore, our aspirations, intentions, and actions surrounding diversity are to foster a community where attorneys, staff, clients, mentors, and anyone we connect with feel welcomed, appreciated and valued. As a member of firm leadership and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, I will continue to do everything I can to ensure our efforts stay intentional and consistent with who we are as a firm and as coworkers and friends of our LGBTQ+ colleagues.