Discussion (1L): We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident? Race and Criminal Law in the 21st Century

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Course Description

There is no responsible person denying that those institutions that form the core of the "criminal justice system," with its explicit commitment to securing "justice," are the very institutions that have been (and continue to be) primary engines of injustice in the United States. We will explore that tragic phenomenon by looking at four subjects: (a) the history of the intersection between race and criminal law; (b) prison abolition; (c) defunding the police; and (d) sentencing disparities and the death penalty. The assignments for each session will include a variety of book chapters, articles, judicial decisions and podcasts. This discussion seminar will meet four times during the Fall quarter. Meeting dates and times to be arranged by instructor. Elements used in grading: Attendance and class participation.

Grading Basis

L03 - Law Mandatory Pass/Restricted credit/Fail

Min

1

Max

1

Course Repeatable for Degree Credit?

No

Course Component

Seminar

Enrollment Optional?

No