Diversity & Inclusion
Ultimately, what makes a law firm strong is when that law firm’s diverse members work together collaboratively to serve the best interests and needs of our clients.
TDS is committed to addressing the importance of diversity and inclusion. This commitment starts at the top with the TDS Equity and Accountability Council, leading the implementation and maintenance of firm policies and initiatives designed to create a culture that reflects the Core Values of TDS.
Women in Leadership
Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. Knowing that bias exists isn’t enough, action is needed to level the playing field. It is only through recognizing and calling out bias, discrimination and stereotyping that we can break the bias.
We are fortunate to have a strong group of women who are leaders within many of our firm’s key areas, including management, practice groups, business development, recruitment, client relationships, marketing, accounting and human resources. They are also our mentors and community leaders.
Embracing Commitment through Action
We embrace our commitment to diversity and inclusion through action – with donations and support of various Manitoban diversity and inclusion efforts by the Firm and individual lawyers, including:
- JD Bridges Foundation: building bridges towards the pursuit of legal education for Black students in Canada
- Rainbow Resource Centre’s Camp Aurora supporting Manitoba’s only camp for 2SLGBTQ+ youth
- Women in Business: sponsoring events such as the Winnipeg Women’s Conference and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards
When looking for an Articling position, I wanted to work at a firm that had women partners and TDS was right at the top of the list in that regard, which made my decision really easy. Looking forward, I am now the Chair of the Business Law Practice Group and our firm’s Management Committee, and the past Chair of our Students’ Committee.
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Lisa Stiver, TDS Partner
Management Committee Chair and Business Law Practice Group Lead
We are breaking down barriers that historically kept women out of private practice. Women belong in private practice. We belong in the partnership, and we belong in the firm’s leadership. This is recognized, respected, and celebrated, and is part of what makes TDS strong.
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Bailey Harris, TDS Partner
Chair of the Equity and Accountability Council and
Leader of the Construction Law Group
Core Value: Diversity
We value diversity and will strive to reflect the communities we serve.
