Hausfeld awarded the 2026 IMLA Amicus Service Award

On April 10, the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) presented Hausfeld with the organization’s distinguished Amicus Service Award for their support of the IMLA Legal Advocacy program in Diemert v. City of Seattle. The case addresses whether participation in or exposure the City’s DEI programming created a hostile work environment, and whether the City’s response to related complaints constitutes unlawful retaliation.

The amicus brief was submitted on behalf of the International Municipal Lawyers Association in support of the City of Seattle, emphasizing that educational diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs are lawful and essential to effective local government operations. It explains that these programs foster inclusive workplaces, enhance public service, and do not constitute unlawful racial classifications or hostile work environments. The brief urges the Ninth Circuit to reject efforts to broadly undermine DEI initiatives and to affirm the district court’s decision.  The full brief can be accessed here.

The Amicus Service Award seeks to recognize the lawyers who have been actively involved in legal advocacy for and on behalf of local governments and IMLA, and who have done exemplary work to protect and advance local government interests.

Hausfeld partner Katie R. Beran accepted the award on behalf the Hausfeld team at the IMLA Mid-Year Seminar in Washington, D.C., during an amicus awards ceremony at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. The Hausfeld team that prepared the brief also included partner Daniel P. Weick, associates Annabelle Emuze and Zelly Rosa, and paralegals Angel Dorsey and Ramon Rodriguez.