Introduction:

Laurie Robinson Haden, a trailblazing attorney and acclaimed author, has long been an influential figure in the legal profession. Her impact reverberates not only through her distinguished career but also through her groundbreaking book, “It’s Time to Shine: A Guide for Professionals of Color on How to Advance Their Career.” This Amazon #1 Best Seller chronicles her transformative journey, particularly spotlighting Chapter 6, where Laurie unveils the birth of a pivotal movement that reshaped the landscape for women of color in law.

The Birth of Corporate Counsel of Women of Color:

In 2003, Laurie Robinson Haden, serving as the Assistant General Counsel at CBS Broadcasting, Inc. in New York City, initiated a movement that would redefine the experiences of women of color in the legal sphere. Faced with the isolation and scattered presence of diverse lawyers across firms and corporations, Laurie envisioned a supportive network. This vision materialized during an informal gathering with ten in-house female attorneys of color at a New York City restaurant, laying the foundation for what would later become the Corporate Counsel of Women of Color (CCWC).

A Seed Planted, a Network Grows:

Driven by her faith and belief in small beginnings, Laurie took the reins in creating a directory after the initial meeting. The network swiftly burgeoned from ten attendees to fifty within weeks, expanding to 250 in just a couple of months. Despite the absence of financial support, Laurie invested her personal resources and time, funding the initiative herself. She navigated the task of mailing newsletters and directories, sowing the seeds of connection among diverse women through the law—a venture that has yielded immeasurable dividends.

The Global Reach of CCWC:

Today, the CCWC stands as a beacon of support and empowerment. It has evolved into the nation’s largest organization for corporate in-house women of color attorneys within Fortune 1000 and Forbes 2000 Legal Departments. With a membership base exceeding 10,000, including lawyers, judges, entrepreneurs, and law students, the CCWC’s influence spans continents. Its global presence extends across the United States, Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. Notably, in 2023, Corporate Counsel Women of Color attained Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, marking a testament to its international impact.

Laurie Robinson Haden: A Voice for Empowerment:

Laurie Robinson Haden’s endeavors transcend the confines of traditional success. Her commitment to advocacy and empowerment shines through her book and her unwavering dedication to fostering connections and support among women of color in law. A distinguished attorney, bestselling author, and inspiring speaker, Laurie embodies the belief that using one’s voice is pivotal for personal and societal advancement.

Conclusion:

Laurie Robinson Haden’s journey, chronicled in “It’s Time to Shine,” reflects her profound impact on the legal profession, specifically in uplifting women of color. Her legacy, epitomized by the CCWC’s global reach and enduring influence, stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the relentless pursuit of equity and inclusion.

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