Diversity in law schools is the key to future change
Understanding where our lawyers are coming from and what they look like will help us understand some of the existing challenges to diversity and equity in the legal profession. It will also help us, as a community, craft long-lasting and smart solutions.
According to Enjuris:
Research shows that racial, ethnic and cultural diversity in law school classrooms leads to better questions, analysis, and solutions, which translates to more just and intelligent lawyers.
What's more, racial diversity among attorneys creates greater trust in the rule of law. As Judge Edward M. Chen, the first Asian American appointed to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, observed:
The case for diversity is especially compelling for the judiciary. It's the business of the courts to dispense justice fairly and administer the laws equally. It's the branch of government ultimately charged with safeguarding constitutional rights, particularly protecting the rights of vulnerable and disadvantaged minorities against encroachment by the majority.
How can the public have confidence in such an institution if the communities it's supposed to protect are excluded from its ranks?
How can the public have confidence in such an institution if the communities it's supposed to protect are excluded from its ranks?