University of Wisconsin Law School is facing criticism after first-year students were reportedly forced to attend a “re-orientation” session focused on race. According to sources and screengrabs of the alleged session materials, students were required to participate in a crash course on race and privilege.
The session included a worksheet that prompted students to “Tell the Truth” and write about “how deep racism goes in my life.” Students were also encouraged to share racial slurs for different minority groups in an effort to break down stereotypes and tropes. Additionally, topics like color blindness were criticized as inherently racist.
One of the readings provided before the re-orientation even claimed that “there are no exceptional white people.” The session seemed to prioritize discussions on race rather than focusing on legal education, which has raised questions about its relevance to the study of law.
The University of Wisconsin has not yet addressed the controversy surrounding the re-orientation. However, the session has sparked backlash and left many questioning its connection to legal education.
Critics argue that while discussions on race and privilege are important, they should not overshadow the primary purpose of law school, which is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful attorneys. Some question whether this type of mandatory session is an appropriate use of students’ time and resources.
The controversy surrounding the University of Wisconsin Law School’s re-orientation highlights the ongoing debate about the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in educational institutions. While DEI is important, there is a need to strike a balance between addressing these issues and ensuring that students receive a comprehensive legal education.
As the discussion around DEI continues, it is crucial for educational institutions to consider the implications of their initiatives and ensure that they align with the primary goals of the institution. In the case of law schools, it is essential to prioritize legal education while also fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment.
