Q: Martin Luther King Day is a floating holiday in our law firm and, although I have worked on this day in the past, this year feels different. I am one of three black attorneys and I hope to make partner this year—should I work or take the day off?
A: After protestors paused to bury two NYC policemen, the quiet ended abruptly as twelve journalists seated at their morning meeting lost their lives. I wonder what Martin Luther King would say about the state of our country and the state of the world. My thought today is that he would say “I am Trayvon Martin” and “Je suis Charlie” as he called for peace. On Monday January 19, what is appropriate for you? Consider in advance the following:
- Are you working on a case with colleagues that have a deadline the week of January 19? If yes, are your colleagues working on January 19?
- What is different for you about MLK day this year? Why do you feel it is more important to honor Dr. King this year?
- As an attorney, how can you or your firm make a difference in the area of social justice through the pro-bono work you do?
- Do you feel as if you are losing or giving up your cultural/ethnic identity as you move
up in the firm? If yes, what do you value? What makes you “you”? Do you “fit in”? Note: Don’t try to blend in –“fake it till you make it” doesn’t work. - Do your colleagues know why this year is different for you? Have you communicated your opinion or what you feel?
Recommendation: Don’t go underground with your feelings. Being a professional means that you have the capacity to express, explain and inspire others. Why not organize a MLK Day of Service or a movie outing and go see Selma?
