DLA Conference 2016: "Discrimination Law Today - Threats and Opportunities"

Discrimination Law Today -
Threats and Opportunities

If you are interested in equality law and practice and
concerned about how the gains of the past can be protected
and used to fight the challenges of tomorrow,
then this is the conference to attend.

The DLA conference is renowned for its combination of cutting-edge legal commentary, insightful exposition and shaping the policy agenda for discrimination lawyers - this year is no exception.

Following the referendum on EU membership, we find ourselves at a critical juncture for discrimination law. The DLA invites you to join them in continuing the conversation about what the referendum result means for discrimination law, and what practitioners can do to maintain (and enhance) the existing legal protection.

We are very excited to announce that Clare Moody MEP and Professsor Uduak Archibong MBE (Director of Centre for Inclusion and Diversity, University of Bradford) will both be keynote speakers. Their passion and intelligence will no doubt frame the debate throughout the day. This will be followed by an in-depth review of "Trends in Discrimination Law - where have we come from and and where are we going?" given by Robin Allen QC of Cloisters Chambers.

As in previous years, during the afternoon participants will be able to choose topics they wish to explore in greater depth during breakout sessions covering a range of current equality law issues. The breakout sessions, led by experienced practitioners with specialist expertise, will provide practical advice in relation to particular areas of law or procedures.

Our afternoon panel, which will be chaired by Robin Allen QC, will include experts in areas of policy, rights, law and politics. Confirmed panel members include: Aileen McColgan of Matrix Chambers, Ben Patrick of UNISON, Sam Smethers of the Fawcett Society.

A drinks reception at the end of the afternoon will be a great chance for participants and speakers to network.

The referendum may have divided the country, but our hope is that this conference will unite discrimination practitioners in working out the key priorities for both the domestic political agenda and the article 50 negotiations. As ever, the aim will be to and to share ideas, knowledge and experience with other lawyers, advisers, trade unionists and activists.

We very much look forward to seeing you there.