Initiating Arbitral Proceedings in International Commercial DisputesBy H. Vincent DraaDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025International commercial arbitration is a means of resolving business disputes among two or more transnational parties by one or more arbitrators outside of a formal court system. It is a voluntary process, conducted according to the parameters determined by the agreement of the parties. Given all its advantages over traditional litigation, it is not much of an exaggeration to call international commercial arbitration the “only game in town.”
Is Free Speech for Everyone in America?By Junaid AfeefDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025It sounds like a rhetorical question; of course, it is. Right? For decades, flag burning, hate group marches, vile protests at servicemembers’ funerals,and more were deemed protected under the First Amendment. The idea was to ensure all political speech remains uncensored; to do so, we must tolerate polarizing, offensive, or even hateful speech. Although noncitizens enjoy First Amendment protections, the government's plenary authority over immigration allows it to penalize them in ways that effectively chills free speech.
Message from the ChairBy Khara ColemanDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025A message from the chair reflecting on the important work done by the Diversity Leadership Council.
New Help Stop Hate HotlineBy Cindy G. BuysDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025Help Stop Hate is a confidential service that provides support and resources to people and communities affected by hate.
No More Backsliding: It Is Time to Push ForwardBy Junaid AfeefDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025The article explores why the U.S. legal profession remains predominantly white and male despite long-standing diversity efforts. It argues that historical exclusion and structural barriers—not lack of merit—explain the imbalance. It refutes claims that DEI undermines merit, showing that diversity can improve fairness and performance. The Illinois State Bar Association’s past work is highlighted as a basis for renewed commitment in the face of current backlash.
President’s MessageBy Sonni Choi WilliamsDiversity Leadership Council, June 2025It cannot be stressed enough how diversity matters more than ever. As we continue to fight to protect the growth and progress of the ISBA because of diversity, we must look at the history of this newsletter.
