Brandeis School of Law panelists discuss overcoming cultural stereotypes

In light of recent events on the University of Louisville campus, Brandeis School of Law hosted a community conversation on Nov. 10 about cultural stereotypes and the harms they can cause, with Professors Cedric Merlin Powell and Enid Trucios-Haynes leading the discussion. Joining them on the panel were Camilo Ortiz, Assistant Dean for Admissions, and 2L Jesús Ibañez.

The panel opened the discussion by asking how we can make the university more welcoming.

Powell warned against ignoring any racial issues that exist.

“The reason we have issues is because we’re always so quick to neutralize the dialogue. We will say ‘Oh, there’s a reason for this, it was just a holiday party.’ Or, ‘They didn’t mean anything by it.’ But that doesn’t take into account the impact these issues have on the psychology of students. A perception of not belong can be devastating,” he said. “There are people who agree and there are people who will never agree, but the point is to try and engage the issue. There is a broad middle group that remains silent and causes these issues to get bogged down.”

Trucios-Haynes asked what action steps can be taken to address any issues pertaining to cultural stereotypes and one student asked professors to bring up any relating incidents in class.

“Our humanity and our feelings need to be acknowledged, not ignored,” the student said.

Another student admitted that he didn’t see the big deal about dressing in Mexican garb for Halloween before the panel discussion, but had a change of heart once he heard students of color describing how it made them feel.

“Regardless of intent, it had an impact. I didn’t see this as a big deal coming in and I apologize,” he said.

Dean Susan Duncan said such empathy is important, especially in the practice of law.

“If you understood how it makes people feel, would you still do it?” she asked.

Other action items from the discussion include:

• Rudy Ellis III, SBA president, said student leaders across campus are looking at funding to build a new cultural center on campus, and are exploring ways to educate people about diverse cultures.
• Powell said we have to continue to engage and talk about cultural competency.
• Ibañez said more scholarship opportunities are needed, including those awarded for activism.
• Some students suggested diversifying the curriculum at the Law School.
• Professor Jamie Abrams suggested training students to be leaders on these issues around campus.
• Students requested more, ongoing informational/educational forums.

“In my experience, it takes institutions intentionally taking action to raise the issue. And to take conscious actions, it often takes those in power to make that happen,” Trucios-Haynes said. “There are different levels of power and privilege and I think in this case, students have tremendous power.”