Whitney Knox Lee is an anti-racism equity consultant and attorney who is passionate about addressing the racial wealth gap through her estate planning practice, Wills for the People. In this episode, she shares her journey from civil rights law to consulting, emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive estate planning for Black households and communities of color. Whitney also discusses the challenges of navigating wealth conversations within these communities and the need for accessible legal services.
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Whitney Knox Lee is a multifaceted professional with a rich background in law and social justice. Originally from Seattle, she attended Seattle University for both her undergraduate and law degrees. Whitney's journey into law was not straightforward; she initially pursued a career in social work but realized that obtaining a Juris Doctor (JD) would provide her with more power in advocating for racial justice. This realization came during her senior year in college while working in a public defender's office, where she recognized that "lawyers have the power here." After completing her law degree, she moved to Atlanta, where she has dedicated her career to civil rights and anti-racism consulting.
“What we know, without a doubt, literally the only thing that we know as humans is that we will die. Despite that, we don't want to plan for it," shares Whitney Knox Lee on You Are A Lawyer.
Whitney's current focus is on her estate planning practice, Wills for the People, which aims to address racial wealth equity and make estate planning accessible to communities of color. Through her work, Whitney seeks to empower Black households and communities of color to protect and build their wealth, while also creating a culturally responsive approach to estate planning.
Whitney Knox Lee's decision to attend law school was largely influenced by her desire for power in her advocacy for racial justice. Initially, she did not aspire to become an attorney, but her experience working in a public defender's office during her senior year of college opened her eyes to the significant role lawyers play in the justice system. She realized that "lawyers have the power here," which motivated her to pursue a legal education. This shift in perspective led her to apply to law school, albeit as a last-minute decision, demonstrating her commitment to gaining the tools necessary to effect change in her community.
"They lied. This is not what I thought it was going to be," reflects Whitney Knox Lee on Episode 159 of You Are a Lawyer.
Reflecting on her time in law school, she expressed her frustration, stating, "They lied. This is not what I thought it was going to be." This sentiment highlights the disconnect between her expectations and the reality of law school, ultimately shaping her approach to her legal career and her current work as an anti-racism equity consultant and estate planning attorney.
A law degree opens up a myriad of opportunities beyond traditional legal practice, as highlighted by Whitney Knox Lee in her discussion about her journey and current endeavors. Whitney emphasizes that the power of a Juris Doctor (JD) lies in its versatility, stating, "You can do whatever you want." This sentiment reflects the reality that law graduates can pursue careers in various fields, including anti-racism consulting, estate planning, policy advocacy, and even entrepreneurship. By leveraging their legal education, individuals can create impactful initiatives, such as Whitney's "Wills for the People," which aims to address racial wealth equity and make estate planning accessible to communities of color.
“You can do whatever you want," reflects Whitney Knox Lee on Episode 159 of You Are a Lawyer.
Moreover, Whitney's experience illustrates that a law degree can serve as a foundation for advocacy in diverse sectors, allowing graduates to redefine what it means to be a lawyer. She notes that one does not have to feel confined to traditional lawyering roles, as the skills acquired in law school—critical thinking, negotiation, and understanding of legal frameworks—are applicable in numerous contexts. Whether one chooses to work in social justice, business, or even creative fields, the JD provides the tools necessary to navigate and influence various landscapes, empowering graduates to make meaningful contributions in their chosen paths.
Lawyers often seek side hustles to explore their passions, diversify their income, and create platforms for advocacy outside of traditional legal practice. Whitney Knox Lee exemplifies this approach through her podcast, Impostrix Podcast, which serves as a healing space for professionals of color navigating the complexities of race and identity in the workplace. By leveraging her legal background and personal experiences, Whitney not only addresses issues of racial toxicity but also provides a platform for others to share their stories and insights. This side hustle allows her to engage with a broader audience while fulfilling her commitment to anti-racism and equity.
“You can do whatever you want, because as we've discussed, it's the JD that's the power,” shares Whitney Knox Lee in Episode 159 of You Are a Lawyer.
Whitney emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's interests beyond the confines of a legal career. This perspective encourages lawyers to embrace their unique skills and experiences, using them to create meaningful projects that resonate with their values. Whether through podcasts, consulting, or other entrepreneurial ventures, side hustles can empower lawyers to redefine their professional identities and contribute to social change in impactful ways.
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Whitney Knox Lee is licensed to practice law in the State of Georgia
Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.
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