As we celebrate Juneteenth, a day of reflection and recognition of the emancipation of African Americans from slavery in the United States, we are proud to announce the launch of the Association of Black Arbitration Professionals (ABAP). This groundbreaking organization is dedicated to fostering opportunities for Black professionals in the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) space, with a particular focus on arbitration.
Representing just 5% of the American legal population, despite being 12% of the greater U.S. population, the need for greater representation of Black professionals in ADR is apparent. Even with ongoing efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the legal profession, Black professionals remain underrepresented in the field of ADR, and more specifically in arbitration. This disparity not only undermines the principles of equality and justice, but also detracts from the legitimacy and effectiveness of the dispute resolution process. A diverse pool of arbitrators and ADR practitioners is crucial to ensuring that different perspectives and experiences are brought to bear on the resolution of disputes, promoting fairness, and fostering greater trust in the system—and most importantly, satisfying client needs.
The Association of Black Arbitration Professionals aims to address this pressing need by offering industry resources, networking opportunities, and both a digital and in-person platform for Black professionals seeking to enter or advance in the arbitration field. At launch, the most dynamic tool is an interactive database, whereby ABAP members can input their background, experience and qualifications, for interested persons—such as law firms, in-house counsel and others to filter through and find suitable professionals easily and readily.
Furthermore, as the saying goes “What gets measured, gets done,” so we will also endeavor to establish standards and metrics to ensure greater inclusion of Black arbitration professionals. ABAP will work tirelessly to create a more inclusive and equitable ADR landscape.
In this spirit, we are reminded of the words of the great civil rights leader, W. E. B. Du Bois, who spoke of a “Talented tenth” leading as thought leaders and missionaries for progress. Indeed, through our collective efforts to promote greater diversity and inclusion in arbitration and other ADR processes not only contribute to the cause of justice but also strengthen the fabric of our society. To that end, and with a spirit of collaboration in-mind, we will work with other affinity groups such as Racial Equality for Arbitration Lawyers (“R.E.A.L.”) and other similar groups, especially those industries with high volumes of Black commercial interest, to achieve these goals.
As we embark on this journey, we invite professionals from all backgrounds to join us in supporting the mission of the Association of Black Arbitration Professionals. Together, we can create a more inclusive, diverse, and effective ADR community that upholds the values of justice and equality for all.
For more information about ABAP, upcoming events, and ways to get involved, please visit our website and follow us on social media. We look forward to working with you as we strive to make a difference in the world of ADR.
Happy Juneteenth, and let us all join hands to create a more equitable and inclusive future in the field of arbitration and beyond.
