Partner Stephen G. Larson shares his words of strength, sadness, and support with the firm and our community.
Dear Colleagues,
The horrific deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor have inflicted indelible wounds on our country and our community. The violence that caused their deaths is particularly painful because these acts were not isolated incidents. They are only the latest, excruciating examples of injustice, inequality, and systemic racism that still exist in our country and infect our communities and institutions, including some of those upon which we rely for our safety and common good.
We are also mindful that it has been people of color, along with the aged, who have suffered disproportionately from the COVID-19 pandemic that still affects us. Our Black and Latinx populations have suffered an inordinate impact from the virus, and many in our Asian population have been subjected to unfounded and racist taunts and reprisals.
As attorneys, we share a special responsibility to effect change, fight racism and injustice, and “support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California,” as we each pledged to do when we joined our profession. Larson O’Brien LLP is committed to working collectively to provide legal assistance to those who need it most. Last month, our firm proudly joined L.A. Represents, a pro bono initiative to help those in our community most impacted by COVID-19. As we return to the office in the coming weeks, I will work with our partners to identify opportunities to expand our pro bono efforts. I welcome any member of the firm to submit suggestions to me or any other partner.
The events of the past few months, and this last week, weigh heavily on all of us, and I understand that they impact each of us in different and manifold ways. If any member of the firm needs any assistance, please reach out without hesitation.
My hope and prayer this evening is for peace, justice, and the courage of our convictions.
Best wishes,
Stephen