The Black British Network Welcomes Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP has announced its support of the Black British Network (BBN), a newly launched initiative with the aim of working towards the social and economic advancement of Black people in the UK. The initiative was created by Cephas Williams, the founder and photographer behind the ground-breaking 56 Black Men campaign. 

Members of Dechert’s London Management Committee, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion team, HR professionals, along with Black lawyers, trainees and business support professionals from the London office will participate in a series of Roundtable Conversations. These individuals will also contribute to the BBN’s Black Paper, a resource focusing on tangible actions to better serve the Black community. 

The firm will also be involved in the BBN’s “Portrait of Black Britain” and “Black British Stories” projects, which both aim to showcase Black employees from partnering firms as well as individuals in the Black community, to amplify their experiences and celebrate their successes.

“Lawyers have a long tradition of supporting efforts to bring racial and social justice, but as a law firm we can – and must – do more,” said Henry Nassau, Dechert’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are honored to join together with Cephas Williams and the BBN to end the destructive influence of systemic racism and stand up for the Black community in the UK. We aspire to change the status quo so that all Black children see a world where Black people are treated fairly and afforded the same opportunities as their white counterparts.”

Cephas Williams said, “Engaging with Dechert’s employees at our roundtable conversations has been insightful and valuable. It is important that we engage companies from various sectors of the working world for us to learn and grow collectively. I am encouraged by Henry's statements on what change in this area looks like, and I look forward to working together to bring an end to systemic racism.”

About Dechert

Dechert is a leading global law firm with 24 offices around the world. We advise on matters and transactions of the greatest complexity, bringing energy, creativity and efficient management of legal issues to deliver commercial and practical advice for clients.