AALS Open Source Program

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Session Type: AALS Open Source Programs

Session Capacity: N/A

Location: Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel

Room: Maryland C

Floor: Lobby Level

The current law of affirmative action is on uncertain ground. With Justice Kavanaugh replacing Justice Kennedy, there may be a five-Justice majority who would limit or even eliminate the ability of public law schools and other universities to institute race-conscious admissions and academic support programs. This panel will address the need to plan for law school pipeline programs that will be effective and constitutional, regardless of how the Supreme Court rules on affirmative action in the future. First, the panelists will analyze current pipeline programs and what makes them effective. Next, the panel will examine the different possible ways the Supreme Court could rule on the constitutionality and legality of law school (both public and private) affirmative action programs. Finally, they will discuss what must be done to ensure that law schools have effective pipeline programs in the future, regardless of how the Supreme Court rules.