The legal profession used to be exclusive. It created barriers both obvious and insidious to prevent women, indigenous people, people of colour and members of certain religions to belong. Many pioneering individuals worked hard to break down those barriers. Is it perfect yet? No. But it is well on its way, and cognizant of the challenges both historically and currently.
In my practice, my decision on whether or not to take on a client will never be based on their gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, race or religion. I will not provide advice to any client who I believe discriminates against any of these groups or individuals.
When making referrals I will only base those referrals on the skills and abilities of those individuals or firms – I will not recommend in favour of, or against an individual based on their or race, religion, sexual orientation, gender or gender identification. However, I will not recommend an individual or firm if I believe that they or it discriminates against any of these groups or individuals.