| Topic Name: |
what is the employment situation for minorities |
| Message Name: |
Excuses, excuses |
| Date Posted: |
01/29/2000 |
| In Reply To: |
Dave,
I think you're absolutely correct! They know there is a problem with hiring and retaining minority attorneys; in fact, it has been known for years. In my opinion, they are compiling numbers just to be "pc." I am licensed and graduated in December '98 and have yet to find a legal job. Perhaps I'll go back to the job I had before law school. |
| Message: |
Jobless,
While it may be true that these firms are compiling numbers "just to be 'pc'", the fact remains that these numbers show that the minority hiring situation at top law firms is a far cry from the bleak picture painted by group identity activists and/or individuals who are unable to find jobs. Take a look at Cravath, or Davis Polk, or Simpson Thacher, or Skadden, for example (or any of the other top-tier law firms).
"Retaining" minority attorneys is a different problem, and one that is open to more debate. Perhaps law firms do not provide a welcome environment to minorities and/or women, or do not provide enough good mentors and role models for young associates.
Nevertheless, at least with respect to initial hiring of minority attorneys, top law firms do an excellent job. The failure to find an initial job is not so much an indication of being a victim of race discrimination as it is a victim of there being too many law school graduates (of all races and genders) looking for a limited supply of jobs. In such a situation, naturally, the best students end up with the best jobs.
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