The LRSJ group, Law Students for Gender Equality (LSGE), is bringing students and staff together to think through past and future paths for legal change. This semester’s evening event, ‘Voices by the Fire: Stories of Gender and Justice,’ fostered discussion on gender, justice, and the lived experiences of women and gender-diverse individuals within the legal system. 

The event was held in an intimate and welcoming fireside setting at the ANU Forestry Fire Pit. Roasting marshmallows and sipping on hot chocolate, participants reflected on their lives in the law and shared how gender has shaped their experiences, with LSGE group leader Cassidy Pole leading the discussion. 

The group shared personal and professional experiences relating to gender and justice, and discussed academic and advocacy work on barriers to gender equality in the legal profession. Attendees collectively reflected on what has been achieved across generations of women in the profession, and how law students and legal professionals might address new challenges in the future of gender equality. 

The event highlighted the importance of amplifying marginalised voices and addressing systemic inequalities. Speaking after the event, Cassidy said, "A huge thank you to our speakers, attendees, and everyone who helped bring this event to life. Special appreciation to Dr Anna Saunders and Dr Susan Bartie for their contributions to organising and facilitating the discussion, and to Professor Margaret Thornton for her attendance and ever-empowering messages."

"Transformative action by women in the legal profession and the legal academy is more vital than ever," said Dr Anna Saunders, "I’m enormously proud of our ANU law students organising collectively to develop feminist spaces and to build a shared agenda for reform".

The LSGE is already planning their next event, to be held in August and co-hosted with WILA (Women in Law Association). Keep an eye on the LRSJ newsletter for information. 

Students interested in joining LSGE, receiving updates, and helping to shape the direction of the group’s future work can email lsge.anu@gmail.com.