Diversity & Inclusion
Connecting people of diverse backgrounds with opportunities
to succeed
Diversity is a cultural cornerstone at Chuhak & Tecson, a foundation on which we create an inclusive and open workplace, cultivate creative collaboration and encourage perspective-taking. Lawyers and staff work together to nurture an environment where people of diverse backgrounds have a variety of opportunities to be involved and succeed in ways that are meaningful to them.
Initiatives in Action
Action is at the heart of diversity and inclusion. It comes in many forms, from broadening one’s thinking, to committing resources to those in our community, to including others. We do all of these, month in and month out. We are persistent in our intentions to better our slice of the world when, where and how we can.
In 2017, Chuhak & Tecson established the Joseph A. Tecson Scholarship at DePaul University College of Law in honor of one founder, Joseph A. Tecson.
The scholarship is administered by DePaul and is open to law students both in good academic standing and with proven financial need, with a preference for those who have performed community service. One or two students are awarded a scholarship each year for books and supplies and find it renewed if they remain in good academic standing. Each scholarship recipient will be invited to attend firm events and apply to the firm’s law clerk program.
Joseph Tecson was a ground-breaking attorney in Chicago’s legal community and practiced for over 50 years. Tecson was passionate about public and community service. He served as a delegate with the Constitutional Convention which drafted a new constitution for Illinois in 1970 that is still in effect. Beginning in 1976 he also served for five years as the first Asian-American commissioner on the Cook County Board and was on the committee that oversaw Cook County Hospital. Tecson’s zest for public service further extended to serving on the boards of MacNeal Hospital and Brookfield Zoo. He was one of the greatest proponents of the zoo’s continual upgrades and addition of new exhibits. Chuhak & Tecson continues Tecson’s commitment to diversity and inclusion today with an environment where each person is included, listened to and supported as they strive to achieve their personal best.
Deadlines for applications are on a rolling basis. For more information or to learn how to apply for the Joseph A. Tecson Scholarship Fund, contact Alan Paberzs, executive director of development, DePaul University College of Law.
April is Diversity Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the wide range of cultures, backgrounds and traditions that shape our communities. At Chuhak & Tecson, P.C., we recently honored this occasion with our annual firm event, A Taste Around the Chuhak World.
This festive gathering brought together team members to share an impressive variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts – each dish reflecting the unique heritage and culinary traditions of our colleagues. Attendees were encouraged to sample everything and share their favorites, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Kudos to all of our talented “chefs!”
In preparation for the event, our Diversity & Inclusion Council decorated our café with flags from around the world, setting the stage for a colorful and welcoming environment. As the room filled with homemade dishes, we “traveled” through the flavors of the southern United States, Mexico, Germany, Poland and more—without ever leaving the office!
At Chuhak & Tecson, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential for our continued success. This event is just one of many held in recognition of Celebrate Diversity Month and is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion, connection and mutual respect.
Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. was proud to be a Silver Sponsor of the Diversity Scholarship Foundation’s 2025 Unity Gala & Awards Ceremony and Dinner on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the JW Marriott Chicago, 151 W. Adams Street, Chicago.
As part of the firm’s diversity and inclusion initiative, we continue to support efforts in the community to advance the legal educational opportunities of others. We are pleased to join others in the legal community to raise funds providing scholarships to students who are leaders and achievers and interested in public service after graduation. The evening featured the Diversity Award Ceremony presenting scholarships to diverse and deserving students from more than 100 applicants, the annual swearing-in ceremony of bar association presidents from across the state and several other diversity achievement awards.
Firm members Ryan Biller, Monica Westlake, Cy Porras, Yolanda Torres, Tae Kim, Chuhak & Tecson president, Mitchell Weinstein, Adrienne Arlen and guests attended the event representing the firm.
Thursday, June 19, our office will be closed in observance of Juneteenth, a day of power, pride and progress. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. That moment sparked a wave of celebration, reflection and resilience that continues today. Over the years, Juneteenth has evolved into a vibrant celebration of Black freedom, culture, creativity and achievement. It’s a day for all communities to come together — whether through food, music, education or art — and honor the ongoing pursuit of equity and justice.
Therefore, this is not just a day off — it’s a moment to honor Black liberation, reflect on America’s path to justice and celebrate the legacy, resilience and brilliance of the African American community.
Whether through music, food, art or action, Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not a finish line — it’s a collective commitment.
We invite you to be part of that journey. Here are some exciting, new ways to engage with Juneteenth 2025 in Chicago:
Emancipation Ball: Celebration of Black Excellence
Wednesday, June 18 | 7 PM
Rockwell on the River
An elegant evening of fashion, food, and fundraising to honor Black entrepreneurship and creative leadership.
Formal attire. Tickets required. https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/special-events/celebrate-juneteenth-in-chicago/
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Juneteenth Day Party & White Sox Game
Wednesday, June 19 | 11:30 AM Patio Party, 1:10 PM Game
Guaranteed Rate Field
Enjoy music, mingling, and all-inclusive food & drinks before the Sox take on the Cardinals. A laid-back way to celebrate solidarity in the South Side sun.
Tickets include food + game entry. https://www.eventnoire.com/events/juneteenth-day-party-2025
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River City CDC Community Celebration
Thursday, June 19 | Noon–2 PM
3709 W. Grand Ave. (Humboldt Park)
A relaxed, family-friendly gathering with lunch, youth performances, games and splash‑pad fun — free entry. https://www.rcitycdc.org/events/juneteenth2025
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CommUNITY Dinner Celebrating Juneteenth
Thursday, June 12 | 6 – 8 PM
The Art Center Highland Park | 1957 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL
Share food, dialogue, and purpose. Join Dr. Sandra Leconte (NAACP Lake County) for a community potluck dinner and conversation about Juneteenth and racial equity.
Bring a shareable dish + your own reusable plate & utensils.
Free event, registration required. https://theartcenterhp.org/juneteenth
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Mather at DuSable: Juneteenth Art Celebration
Thursday, June 19 | 1:30 – 3 PM
DuSable Black History Museum | 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago, IL 60637
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Margaret Burroughs through hands-on printmaking inspired by her iconic work. A meaningful art experience that blends heritage with creativity.
All materials provided.
Free with museum entry. https://www.dusablemuseum.org/events
Profile in Inclusion
Celebrating the people of Chuhak & Tecson:
Viridiana Najera