Celebrating International Women’s Day with Lori Tolle

International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women. The history of International Women’s Day seems to differ in origins- from a march through New York City in 1908 campaigning for the right to vote, to a protest and strike for “Bread and Peace” held by Russian women in 1917. Nevertheless, the meaning behind International Women’s Day has remained the same; 

“It is a day when women are recognized for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political.” (UN)

Lori Tolle, a successful attorney at Fuicelli & Lee, sat down with us for an interview this International Women’s Day. Learn about what it means to Lori to be a female attorney, and how she celebrates International Women’s Day.

What are some strengths of being a woman in this field?

“I have been underestimated, but I think sometimes being underestimated can be a good thing. My M.O. is to always be professional and courteous with adjusters and opposing counsel- to take the high road in my interactions with them, no matter how rude, curt, arrogant or flat-out offensive they may be toward me. I am unphased by others’ intimidation and incivility and I do not respond in “like-kind”. I think, in a world where incivility unfortunately runs rampant, my M.O. sometimes leads others to underestimate my abilities for fortitude. When this happens, I think it only works to my advantage, as the adjusters or defense counsel mistakenly think, because I didn’t get down in the gutter and throw mud back at them, they will be able to steamroll or bully their way into an unjust result. These types of people can be caught off guard to discover that the secret to my success is tenacity, thoughtful analysis, and a fierce commitment to seeking justice- intimidation and incivility are not essential ingredients.”

What are some of your favorite female artists, actresses, public figures, etc?

• Ruth Bader Ginsberg. “Soooo many reasons!”
• Michelle Obama because she is so smart, articulate, kind, real/genuine, and unpretentious.

How would you celebrate International Women’s Day?

I am hoping I can go to lunch with my Mom- an incredible, strong woman who has lived through and overcome a lot of challenges, always been one to lift others up (me included), and contributed greatly to the person I am today.

What advice or wisdom would you share with either your daughters or female law students?

• Know your worth. Surround yourself with those who see your worth- do not settle for less. Advocate for yourself when you need to, ask for what you need/want.
• Remember you cannot be all things to all people at all times- make time for yourself, to do those things that “fill your well,” because you cannot give to others if your well is empty.
• Do not try to imitate or mimic your male counterparts. Be who you are at your core. Just because men were doing the work first, or get paid more, or have been doing it longer, does not necessarily mean that is the only or best way for the work to be done.
• Whatever you are, be a good one- be badass!

Fuicelli & Lee celebrates International Women’s Day on behalf of our elite female attorneys and staff, and leave you with a quote to inspire you:

“I would like to be remembered as someone who used whatever talent she had to do her work to the very best of her ability.” (Ruth Bader Ginsberg)