This weekend we recognize Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of chattel slavery in America. Two years ago GW Law adopted an Anti Racism Resolution. The resolution underscores our commitment to advancing social justice, equity, and inclusion at our law school and across the nation. Read the resolution here.
"We, the faculty of the George Washington University Law School, hold ourselves accountable for engaging in the daily work of combating racism as individuals and as an institution. We pledge to approach these efforts with humility and respect, mindful of the importance of listening to and learning from those of us most impacted by systemic oppression."
- GW Law Anti Racism Resolution
These are just a few steps taken by GW Law to ensure this resolution is a part of our daily lives:
Assistant Dean of Social Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The law school has appointed its first Assistant Dean for Social Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Dean Carmia Caesar is working to enhance the student experience and the external impact of our law school as an antiracist institution. She is helping our community to implement the unanimously adopted Antiracism Resolution adopted two years ago.
Jump Start Pre-Orientation Program
The Jump Start program will launch on the 15th of August. The two day collaboration between Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Dean of Students offices seeks to ensure that all students begin their time in law school with the tools that will help them succeed. The opportunity is available to incoming students who identify as First Gen, or who think that they will benefit from additional insight regarding what to expect in law school.
Events On Campus
GW Law hosts hundreds of events a year. The Black Law Students Association hosts countless events including GBM & Trivia Night and Black Brunch with ABLA. In addition GW Law and BLSA host an annual dinner in honor of Patricia Roberts Harris.
“After a two-year COVID hiatus from an in-person event, BLSA with ABLA support, this past April, hosted a return to the Patricia Roberts Harris (PRH) annual awards banquet honoring the graduating class. Each 2022 BLSA graduate was individually honored and Derick Wallace, 3L outgoing BLSA President, won the coveted PRH Award for exceptional service and excellence as a student leader.”
-Dean Renee DeVigne
Graduating at the top of her class in 1960, Mrs. Harris was a lauded public servant who achieved many great accomplishments during her career. Notably, she was the first African-American woman to serve as a U.S. Ambassador, serve in the U.S. Cabinet, and serve as Dean of a law school. The PRH Dinner serves as a tribute to Mrs. Harris’ legacy. See the 2022 recap here.