BLD is the UK's first online directory free listings of UK individual black minority ethnic (BME) lawyers and UK organisations with at least one BME lawyer. It was the brain-child of Debo Nwauzu. The idea for BLD took root and stayed firmly planted after she attended the first ever Black Women Global Conference in Paris, France, in June 2004.

 

Nearly two years later (in February 2006), following immense effort, not inconsiderable time and sums of money, some downs and some big highs, BLD was born! This site is the outcome of that conference in Paris, ignited by the sheer breadth of the amazingly talented women of all shades from all corners of the globe, and powered by the determination to make a change.

 

Why BLD? Black minority ethnic lawyers and law students are disproportionately disadvantaged in obtaining training contracts, pupillages and tenancies and they are also less likely to be offered partnership. They are less likely to reach the highest levels of the profession compared to their white counterparts. There can also be a feeling of isolation and a sense that limited information is available. There is little information for users of legal services to gauge the diversity of the different organisations they instruct or wish to instruct. This can and must change.

 

BLD's aim is to make a real difference. We will highlight areas where a lot is being done and those who can do better, provide information to all, including organisations, individual lawyers, law students and members of the general public.  We will showcase the talent of black minority ethnic lawyers. The aim is not to name and shame but to encourage, cajole and ask: "Why not?"