This course introduces students to the law and methodology associated with public interest litigation. A significant component of the course explores the social, legal, political and constitutional history that grounds the concept of “equality” as set forth in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas (1954). Students will be introduced to civil rights legal history, its applications in the education and public accommodations or housing contexts through the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and to its analysis by critical legal theorists (race/feminist/queer/latina/o). Additionally the course introduces students to the basics of Voting Rights enforcement and Free speech/expressive rights under the First Amendment. A core aspect of the course on civil rights litigation is examined through study of Section 1983 suits for damages and injunctive relief against individuals acting under color of the law to deprive others of their constitutionally protected rights.
This is an elective course. Most, though not all, electives are offered each year. Students may expect to have at least one opportunity to subscribe to all electives at some time in their three years in the college.