In the News: Cara Crotty Quoted in Bisnow on Shifting DEI Compliance Landscape

Constangy partner Cara Crotty was featured in a recent Bisnow article, examining changes in the representation of women and people of color in executive leadership at major commercial real estate firms. The article also explores how increased scrutiny of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives is shaping employers’ approaches to workplace policies and practices.

In the article, Cara discusses how corporate human resources and legal departments are carefully reviewing DEI-related policies and practices for potential compliance concerns.

“HR legal departments are taking the time to do a thorough inventory of the policies and practices they have that could be related to DEI-type programs and really doing a deep dive just to see if there are any potential concerns that hadn't come to light before,” Cara said.

She also notes that changing the terminology associated with a program does not address potential legal concerns with the underlying practice.

At the same time, Cara emphasized that employers can continue to pursue lawful efforts to create inclusive workplaces.

“There's nothing unlawful about wanting to have an inclusive workplace where people are comfortable and where we are not harassing people,” she said.

To view the full article, subscribers may click here.