Dear colleagues/network members
I trust this letter finds you well. I am writing to express our profound support for the highly regarded immigration lawyer, Jacqueline McKenzie, who has recently been subjected to unwarranted and deeply troubling treatment by the Conservative party. As an organisation committed to EDI, we find it imperative to address this matter and stand in solidarity with Ms. McKenzie.
The recent revelations, as shared in an article in The Guardian, shed light on a distressing incident where a misleading dossier was disseminated to several right-leaning newspapers, including the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mail, the Sun, and the Daily Express.
The document, originating from the Conservative party HQ, contained inaccuracies, and was evidently designed to incite ill-will and animosity towards Ms. McKenzie, Head of Immigration at Leigh Day, and a partner at the firm.
In her eloquent Guardian article, Ms. McKenzie courageously exposed the partisan nature of this dossier, highlighting that it was not only riddled with inaccuracies but was also clearly motivated by prejudice.
She rightfully described the document as being “underpinned by racism and misogyny,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with all who hold equality, diversity, and inclusion dear.
We are heartened to see that the legal community has come together in an extraordinary show of unity and solidarity. The joint statement by Nick Vineall KC, Chair of the Bar Council, and Lubna Shuja, President of the Law Society, unequivocally condemns the behaviour of the Conservative party in this matter.
The statement aptly expresses the legal community’s grave concern over the treatment meted out to Ms. McKenzie and raises a critical point about the broader implications of such actions.
It is profoundly important that we all recognise and respect the role that lawyers play within the framework of the law, a framework that is established by parliament. The actions of the Conservative central headquarters undermine not only the independence of the legal profession but also erode public confidence in the very foundation of our justice system and the rule of law itself.
Moreover, Ms. McKenzie’s dedication to her work is exemplary. She has devoted a substantial portion of her time to Windrush-related matters, including her role in the independent advisory group that contributed to the Windrush Lessons Learned review—an initiative set up by none other than Sajid Javid.
This remarkable commitment is a testament to her passion for justice and her tireless efforts to rectify systemic injustices.
In sharing this message of support, we hope to contribute to the resounding chorus that seeks to rectify the injustice Ms. McKenzie has endured. Her experience serves as a stark reminder that we must continue to challenge prejudices, stand up against discrimination, and advocate for equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging and policies, processes, procedures, and practices that are free from bias.
We will proudly share this message across our social media channels and within our networks, echoing the voices that champion equity, diversity and inclusion, and the principles that form the bedrock of our legal system.
Thank you for your continued dedication to upholding justice and promoting a more equitable society.
Sincerely,
Alyson Malach
Director of EDUK