April 15, 2021 / Media Mention

Diversity in Business: Individual achievement

Columbus Business First

Porter Wright's Karim Ali was honored as an Outstanding Diversity Champion in the Columbus Business First Diversity in Business Awards on April 15, 2021. In the article, "Diversity in Business: Individual achievement," the publication featured each individual honoree:

Karim Ali

Chief diversity officer and partner in charge of professional personnel, Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP

"Karim Ali is a partner at Porter Wright and is the law firm’s first chief diversity officer, charged with assuring the firm’s goal of providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all lawyers and staff. He helped create several employee resource groups, including one for the LGBTQ community, and he founded the firm’s Diverse Attorney Network.

Karim uses his powerful voice to push the envelope and have necessary, and sometimes uncomfortable conversations in order to make a true impact and move the needle. He has made measurable progress at improving diversity at Porter Wright and in our community.

Thanks to his commitment to diverse, equitable and inclusive practices, the firm was thrilled to announce its most diverse class of associates in January 2021.

Karim’s leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives extends to our Columbus community.

Based upon his unwavering commitment and advocacy, Karim was selected as a commissioner on the Columbus Women’s Commission. This esteemed body advances the economic well-being of women in Central Ohio.

With the Equality Alliance, Karim spearheaded an effort for the firm joining the Human Rights Campaign Business Coalition for Equality and the HRC Corporate Equality Index. He worked to create a structure that provides each of the firm’s eight offices opportunities to support LGBTQ+ businesses, offer education on LGBTQ+ issues, and coordinated the firm’s involvement in community Pride events."

– Excerpts from nomination package