Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has awarded Kutak Rock LLP a perfect score on its 2019 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the national benchmark on corporate policies and practices impacting LGBTQ employees. Earning a score of 100 distinguishes Kutak Rock as one of the “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality,” in the U.S.
“We are extremely proud to once again earn a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index,” said Alex Justiss, partner and attorney co-chair of the firm’s LGBTQIA + Allies Affinity Group. “Throughout my time practicing law at Kutak Rock, both as an associate and a partner, the firm has treated both me and my husband with dignity, respect and compassion. Firm leadership has consistently promoted inclusivity and diversity in our firm culture, which has created a safe and welcoming environment for us to all work together as equals. This experience is one that both we and our clients consider integral to the services we offer.”
Since Kutak Rock opened its doors in 1965, the firm’s culture has embraced diversity and equality in the legal profession, making strategic efforts to hire women and minority attorneys long before laws required it. This early commitment to equality and professionalism is best embodied by founder Robert J. Kutak’s chairmanship, known as the Kutak Commission, which proposed dramatic revisions to ethical rules relating to lawyers and the legal profession.
“We’re proud to continue the legacy of Bob Kutak and Harold Rock, valuing every client and every employee’s unique and diverse background and talents. It’s an honor to be recognized by HRC and a privilege to work at a law firm with 54 years of inclusiveness, diversity and respect for all,” said Susie Carlson, legal secretary and staff co-chair of the firm’s LGBTQIA + Allies Affinity Group.
Over the past five decades, Kutak Rock has reinforced its commitment to LGBTQ rights through its inclusive Equal Employment Opportunity policy, the extension of equal benefits to all employees—including transgender employees and LGBTQ employees in domestic partnerships—and the work of the firm’s LGBTQIA + Allies Affinity Group to provide networking, engagement and educational opportunities. Today, the firm includes LGBTQ partners and equity partners at over two times the national average. Over 4% of Kutak Rock equity partners openly identify as LGBTQ, compared to 1.92% in other law firms, according to a Vault survey.