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.
National Disability Independence Day, observed each year on July 26, marks the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This landmark legislation was a critical step toward ensuring equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities in all aspects of life.
For those individuals among us with a disability, have a family member or friend with a disability, we acknowledge that this day holds deep personal meaning. It represents not just legal progress, but an actual experiential shift toward dignity, access, and inclusion. It is also a reminder that independence, opportunity and respect are not privileges — they are rights.
In recognition of National Disability Independence Day, Chuhak & Tecson’s Mallory Moreno, leader of the firm’s Elder Law practice, presented and led a significant and informative discussion on the value of planning for the special needs of loved ones for members of the firm.
Please join us in continuing to create a supportive and inclusive space for all individuals and their families as they face their daily challenges and triumphs. Their strength and compassion serve as an inspiring example for us all!
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
Chuhak & Tecson was proud to recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and honor the millions of Asian Americans whose roots span more than 20 countries across East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent — each with its own rich history, culture and language.
As part of this recognition, our firm sponsored a table at the Asian American Bar Association’s (AABA) annual awards ceremony and reception. Several members of the firm attended the event in support of the AABA and to celebrate the achievements of the Asian American legal community. We are especially proud that Chuhak & Tecson principal, Tae Kim, is serving as this year’s president-elect for the association.
Pictured from left to right: Amanda Losquadro, principal, Gillian Mace, director, Yolanda Torres, legal assistant, Tae Kim, principal, Ashely Coppola, principal, Carri Conlon, principal, Sarah Allam, paralegal.
Profile in Inclusion
Celebrating the people of Chuhak & Tecson:
Viridiana Najera