Racial Equality and the Law
Differing perspectives about racial equality and the law have been a core conflict in America from its founding until the present day. Some issues have been resolved through the progress of history and changes in beliefs and attitudes. But change brings other issues, and some feel things have gone “too far.” Conflict over race continues to take the center stage in American politics and public life.
In this 12-week program of lectures, materials, and activities, Professor Brant T. Lee will guide an exploration of ways to interpret clashing narratives about race for those who want to understand our differences better. The focus will be on how law—in the form of Supreme Court decisions, anti-discrimination legislation, and Executive Orders—views racial equality, and how that has affected general public discourse.
Note from the Professor
There is much concern these days about certain perspectives or ideologies regarding race being used in some way to indoctrinate students. There is also concern about certain aspects of our history being erased or ignored. While I will try to present materials in a balanced and objective way, I have to make choices about what to present and how to present it in ways that not all will agree with. There is no purely objective way to have a substantive discussion about race.
While all perspectives are welcome, not all attitudes are. This effort will only be productive for those who are interested in trying to understand one another. This will not be a good venue to rehearse attack lines and well-worn arguments. We are trying to gain insight, not ammunition.
By enrolling, you agree that you are choosing to hear what I present. No one is required to participate in this program. You are presumed to be adults, capable of critical review of what you see and read. Not only are you not required to agree with me, but you are encouraged to articulate your disagreement in ways that help me to understand you.
Personal Note from Professor Brant T. Lee
After growing up in San Francisco and living in Boston and Washington, DC, my wife and I have now lived in Akron, Ohio, for twenty-eight years. We have raised our children and established our careers here. I have been reading, writing, and teaching about race for over twenty-five years and have seen the widely differing perceptions and misperceptions that Americans have of each other. This background gives me a unique perspective to lead an inquiry into racial conflict in America.
In 2020, I offered a free online course on race and the law that attracted over 5,000 registrants. This program is derived from that class.
Continuing Education (CE) / Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Credits
CE or CLE credits may be available for a fee. If you are registered, you will be notified when these options become available.
Instructor Bio
Brant T. Lee is Professor of Law at The University of Akron School of Law. Professor Lee received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and graduate degrees from the Harvard Law School and the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Prior to joining the Akron Law faculty, Professor Lee worked as an attorney in private practice in San Francisco, served as Counsel to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, and briefly served as acting Deputy Staff Secretary and Special Assistant to the President in the White House. LocationOnline, Online, Asynchronous
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$ 0 Registration Fee
$ 5 Certificate of Completion