The Georgia Defense Lawyers Association (GDLA) is an association for all lawyers who practice law principally in the area of civil litigation representing defendants. GDLA has always maintained an open membership policy and has welcomed into its membership defense lawyers of all backgrounds – regardless of gender, ethnicity, race, national origin, or sexual orientation. In order to reinforce its open membership policy, GDLA wishes to express its strong commitment to the goal of diversity in its membership. The Association recognizes that the promotion and retention of a diverse membership is vital to the success of the organization as a whole. Diversity provides for a broader and richer environment by drawing on the wealth of varied perspectives and experiences and fosters creative thinking and solutions beneficial to all of its members. GDLA embraces and encourages diversity in all aspects of its activities, and is committed to creating a climate that supports and promotes diversity in its organization and membership.