Because diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to fulfilling Indigent Defense Service’s mission, the IDS Commission is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in the public defense community. Diversity and racial equity in the public defense community better ensures fair and just outcomes for a diverse client base.
Diversity is an inclusive concept and encompasses race, ethnicity, sex, age, mental and physical ability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, religion, nationality, marital and parental status, and other characteristics and experiences. With greater diversity, we can be more creative, effective, and just, bringing more varied perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, talents, and interests to the practice of law and the administration of justice. We recognize that racial inequity exists across systems and institutions and it will require systemic interventions and training to change thinking, reduce disparities, and improve outcomes for all populations.
To this end, we pledge to continuously examine policies, practices, and procedures through a racial equity lens, and facilitate diversity in hiring, retention, and career development within the public defense community. We recognize that achieving diversity and equity requires our commitment to an ongoing process.