The title of this article—never just a label—applies to so many issues and scenarios, but right now, it's at the forefront of my mind when I think about equity, diversity, and inclusion. That's because Anthony Collins has been shortlisted for two ED&I Law Firm of the Year awards in the last few weeks: the Birmingham Law Society award and the national Women and Diversity in Law award.

Whilst this is brilliant and something we're immensely proud of, it's not about the award. Getting the label of ‘Law Firm of the Year’ would be nice but it doesn't mean anything if the people who work at the firm, clients who work with the firm and communities we're in don't feel the same. People aren't the labels or boxes society might put them in. Backgrounds, characteristics and diversities overlap. We're only really inclusive if our efforts are authentic and driven by diversity at all levels. 

I really believe that's what we're managing to build at Anthony Collins. Whilst I'm proud of the awards shortlisting, I'm more proud of my colleagues who have shared their personal experiences in an intranet article for the Transgender Day of Visibility; talked in a podcast about their journey in deciding to wear the hijab; held a firmwide event to raise money for the Diwali Basket Bridge to involve others in the kindness that's integral to their faith; and spoke candidly about their experience as a female leader in a panel event. And that's just a few of many examples! 

Our latest ED&I strategy for 2024-2027 started with our vision - To be a place where everyone feels they belong, believes they can succeed, knows they are respected and trusts they are represented. To have a shared belief we do this because it is best for our people, the clients we serve and for sustainable business success. I genuinely think we're getting there. 

If this strikes a chord with you, we'd love to hear from you.