I am a commercial insurance solicitor at DWF, and I sit on the Law Society’s LGBTQ+ Solicitors Network committee. For the past two years, I have been part of the working group planning the ‘Pride in Practice’ event, a cross-profession celebration held jointly with the Bar Council, Inns of Court, Bar associations and law firms. After a successful first year, I am very much looking forward to our second event, on 11 June 2026 at Grays Inn.
Events like Pride in Practice are important because they provide a space for celebration and connection, whilst also recognising the continuing need for support and advocacy. This is also reflective of the wider ongoing need for Pride Month, at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly being challenged globally, and in the UK the protections and freedoms of the trans+ community are particularly uncertain or at risk.
Allyship is as important as ever, and Pride events are an opportunity for allies to show their support to the LGBTQ+ community in a visible way, and to make connections that can lead to meaningful commitment and continuing conversations outside of Pride month. It is positive that Pride events are commonplace in the legal sector, with many firms and organisations hosting panel discussions, Pride parties and drag bingo events.
It is crucial that these efforts are sustained throughout the year to reaffirm a commitment to equality and justice; for example, by partnering with LGBTQ+ charities and organisations, providing regular training on unconscious bias, inclusive language, and allyship, and ensuring that policies are fully inclusive.
Getting involved
Joining a network, whether that be an internal Employee Resource Group or a wider organisation, is a great way to contribute to meaningful change, whilst providing opportunities for networking, career development, and mentorship. The Law Society’s LGBTQ+ Solicitors Network provides a space for solicitors (including trainees and in-house lawyers) to find community and share experiences.
Through the Get Involved volunteering programme, both LGBTQ+ lawyers and allies can influence positive change within the legal sector, whether that be by taking part in working groups to help shape policy and best practice, attending Pride marches, or by contributing to the planning of events such as Pride in Practice.
Or consider joining our committee, as we are currently recruiting. Personally, through being a committee member, I have developed my confidence both personally and professionally, felt empowered to introduce and contribute to initiatives both at my firm and within the network, and had the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of people across the profession.
Alice Jackson is a commercial insurance solicitor at DWF, and a member of the Law Society’s LGBTQ+ Solicitors Network committee
