June 12, 2017 (NEW YORK) – In celebration of LGBT Pride Month, Proskauer hosted a panel discussion with representatives from Immigration Equality, Human Rights Watch and OutRight Action International on the violence LGBT individuals face in Chechnya.

Associate Liz Spector Louden, co-chair of Proskauer’s LGBT Affinity Group, gave opening remarks and alumnus Matthew Skinner, executive director of the LGBT Bar Association and Foundation of Greater New York, served as panel moderator. Panelists participated in an informative discussion examining the alarming and systemic violence faced by the LGBT community in Chechnya.

In addition, panelists discussed how advocates can help those seeking asylum in the United States. Associate Brian Huber, co-chair of the Firm’s LGBT Affinity Group, shared his experience on a pro bono asylum case, and said, “I was initially worried about taking on an asylum case because I was unfamiliar with the process, but through the support of my team members and our pro bono partners, I was able to dive in and have a real impact on peoples’ lives.”

Proskauer’s LGBT Affinity Group is a resource open to all lawyers who assist the Firm in recruiting, retaining and developing talented lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender lawyers.