President’s Message: Overcoming the Temptation to Turn Away
In advocating for the profession and the public we serve, wherever we can contribute thoughtfully and helpfully, the OBA seizes the opportunity to engage: to open or add to vital conversations; to cultivate, exchange, and entertain different perspectives; and to foster understanding and achieve progress.
Since I wrote about my mandate to prevent rising polarization from taking root in our profession, the world has experienced yet more events that have sowed division and eroded civil discourse.
I remain convinced that lawyers – as analytical problem-solvers, perceptive negotiators and ardent defenders of the rule of law – will play a crucial role in turning the tide and in leading productive professional and public dialogue.
In these challenging times, the importance of a diverse lawyer community with a common commitment to inclusion, to engagement and to ‘better’ cannot be overstated.
When feeling isolated in our work or affected by the negativity in the atmosphere, connecting with other members through OBA activities and initiatives reminds us that there are passionate and knowledgeable people fighting the good fight right alongside us. I have taken part in countless OBA events of late that were warm, welcoming and heartening, including our recent Blocko – the 5th anniversary of an event that brings justice champions together to celebrate Black History Month and to recognize those who have advanced meaningful equality, representation, and community contribution.
Another OBA gathering that made me feel optimistic about our profession was our Authors Series Event featuring contributors to The Right Not to Remain Silent: The Truth About Mental Health in the Legal Profession. Panelists and guests were so brave in sharing their stories of mental health and determined in working toward solutions. I saw new connections form at the event – and it was clear that attendees left feeling less alone and better equipped to drive change, in lockstep with fellow lawyers and students.
As crucial as community support during unsettling times is the imperative to engage, rather than withdraw, when confronted with increasingly complex, fraught and divisive issues.
In advocating for the profession and the public we serve, wherever we can contribute thoughtfully and helpfully, the OBA seizes the opportunity to engage: to open or add to vital conversations; to cultivate, exchange, and entertain different perspectives; and to foster understanding and achieve progress.
Our series of Diversity Dialogues – the most recent of which took place in January – is a perfect example of the Association leading efforts to tackle tough topics and bridge gaps in understanding. Through facilitated conversation, we provide the expertise and judgement-free space to engender productive sharing of lived experience, in order to both break stigma and to brainstorm solutions.
The OBA took on a hot-button topic at an all-star Notwithstanding Clause Summit in December. The impressive panel provided context, considerations, and insight that made for a thorough and nuanced conversation. Two of these panelists are continuing this discussion in a new JUST. feature that pairs opposing opinions – in this case, the notwithstanding clause as underminer versus upholder of democracy – to broaden our perspective, engage with open minds, and allow us to overcome the temptation to turn away from what is uncomfortable.
If you’ve suggestions for other issues to explore from different angles, please email them to editor@justmag.ca.
