Lack Of Latina Lawyers Detrimental To Latinos Nationwide

A new study by the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession shows that minority representation has barely grown between 2000-2009, inching up from 9.7% to 11.6% , highlighting a serious need for more people of color, particularly Latinas, in the field.

Aside from plenty of numerical data, the report from the IILP also includes essays from various writers within the underrepresented communities, and touches on topics such as pressures black lawyers feel to “act white”, the inclusion (or lack of) of LGBT attorneys of color,  and disability and diversity in law school.

One of the most notable pieces is from Melinda S. Molina called “Los Puentes y Las Barreras: Latinas in the Legal Profession.”  Her essay provides several reasons as to why “Latinas make up only 2% of the associates and 0.4% of the partners in law firms, the lowest rate for any racial or ethnic group”, stating obstacles they face even deciding to enter the law field:

Many of the women in the [study] reported further challenges along the educational pathway to the legal profession. These challenges included teachers and guidance counselors who tried to deter them from pursuing their educational objectives by telling them they would be unsuccessful and by advising them to attend less competitive schools, which some participants believe perpetuated Latinas’ educational underachievement.

Molina later addresses problems Latinas have once they are practicing law:

[T]he vast majority of women had the shared experience of being mistaken for the translator or defendant by other attorneys, judges, and court personnel.

Which have led some to attempt to play down their ethnicities:

[M]any… who believed that they can “pass as white” recognized that they are afforded better treatment and more opportunities for advancement in the legal profession than dark-complexioned Latinas. This belief led some to adjust their appearance or behavior in order to fit in or establish credibility within the dominant culture of their workplaces.

Pretty sad and surprising considering the fact that as the nation’s largest minority group continues to grow, so will the need for legal services, and role models, for the community.