On April 24, the National Institute for Workers’ Rights (NIWR), NELA’s charitable public interest organization, filed an unfair labor practice charge against the law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP with the National Labor Relations Board. NIWR alleges the firm violated federal labor law by blocking associates’ access to email lists used to discuss concerns about the firm’s $100 million deal with the Trump Administration. Associates had reportedly used these channels to express concerns about pro bono commitments, reduced diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and ethical obligations, activities that NIWR argues are protected under labor law as concerted action for “mutual aid or protection.” Skadden is among several major firms providing nearly $1 billion in pro bono services to the Administration while rolling back diversity efforts amid pressure from President Trump, who has directed EEOC investigations into 20 law firms’ diversity initiatives. The charge is part of NIWR’s ongoing efforts to familiarize the public with their rights under the National Labor Relations Act and our commitment to protecting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace.
Corporate Accountability