At Torys, we passionately protect our values. They are what make us successful and, over the years, have sown the seeds of quality relationships—within our firm, with clients, in the legal profession and across our communities. Good people building good relationships is the essence of who we are.
We also believe that values that are not constantly practiced are not values at all. From broad firm policy to day-to-day interactions with colleagues, we strive to see our work through a people-focused lens. Leadership at the firm has been intentional in its approach to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. We are always looking critically at ourselves and considering ways we can improve—e.g., the allocation of leadership positions, client and file opportunities, and the recruitment and retention of equity seeking groups. Through careful and rigorous implementation of policy, programs, practices and communications, we strive to take substantive steps to cultivate diversity, equity and inclusion, and foster a sense of community and generosity.
That is why we are one of the founding members of the Law Firm Diversity and Inclusion Network (LFDIN). In May 2013, we joined 15 other Canadian law firms in signing the Statement of Principles of the LFDIN, agreeing to work together to promote diversity and encourage a culture of inclusion not only inside the firms, but in the broader legal profession as well.
We know there is work to be done to continue addressing systemic inequities within the legal industry and society at large. By staying true to our commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as through supporting and giving back to our communities, we are striving to effect positive change.
Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee includes our Managing Partner and representatives from across the firm. Its objective is to provide centralized leadership and guidance in pursuit of cultivating the many factors that contribute to Torys’ continued growth as a more diverse and inclusive organization.
We are proud of our supportive and collegial environment. Our Affinity Groups bring together lawyers and students from all offices who have shared experiences or backgrounds, providing members with networking and additional mentoring opportunities.
Torys signed the BlackNorth Initiative - Law Firm Pledge, an important step in furthering our commitment to addressing and ending anti-Black and other forms of structural racism in the legal profession. Through the initiative, Torys has committed to working with the BlackNorth Initiative, the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and other stakeholders across the legal profession to break down barriers to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of Black people in our firms.
As part of our commitment to inclusion, we provide tailored employment experiences for neurodiverse summer students through Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital’s Ready to Work program. This collaboration at our Toronto office offers students an opportunity to gain professional work experience and navigate the nuances of today’s modern workplace—all while receiving specialized coaching and support.