MoFo’s representatives remained unavailable for statements this past Thursday.
The Legal Backdrop
The American Alliance for Equal Rights took both MoFo and Perkins Coie LLP to court in August. Their argument? The firms’ diversity fellowships allegedly contravene Section 1981 of Title 42 of the US Code, a cornerstone ensuring equal rights. The litigation implores federal tribunals to eliminate racial considerations during fellow selection.
Edward Blum, the activist orchestrating these legal maneuvers, famously challenged the racial admission protocols at institutions like Harvard and the University of North Carolina. His efforts bore fruit with a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision this June.
Yet, Blum remains tight-lipped, refraining from commenting on whether MoFo’s revisions would address the lawsuit’s concerns. His statement, however, alludes to an eagerness for MoFo’s official rejoinder to the injunction plea in Florida’s Southern District.
This lawsuit mirrors others that have emerged post the June 29 resolution against Harvard’s admission procedures. Many speculate this could be the dawn of a litigious era revolving around affirmative action in professional recruitments.
Wetmore Fellowship: An Overview
Under the Wetmore banner, Morrison Foerster furnishes promising first-year law students with a salaried summer associate role and a generous $50,000 stipend. Drawing salaries akin to novice associates, these summer talents can expect a yearly package of $215,000. The fellowship pays homage to a past chairperson of the esteemed law firm.
