This course explores the intersection of law and social justice, examining how legal frameworks can be used to promote or hinder social equity. The course will analyze historical and contemporary issues related to race, gender, class, disability, and other aspects of identity, investigating the role of law in perpetuating or challenging systemic inequalities. Students will engage with critical theories, case studies, and legal texts to develop a nuanced understanding of how justice is conceptualized and operationalized in society.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the Relationship Between Law and Social Justice: Students will gain a foundational understanding of how legal systems interact with social justice issues.
2. Analyze Key Legal Cases: Students will study landmark cases and legislation that have impacted social justice movements.
3. Critically Engage with Theoretical Perspectives: Students will explore various theoretical frameworks, including critical race theory, feminist legal theory, and intersectionality.
4. Apply Legal Concepts to Social Justice Issues: Students will learn how to apply legal reasoning to contemporary social justice issues, formulating arguments and solutions.
5. Develop Advocacy Skills: Students will practice legal writing, oral advocacy, and policy analysis focused on promoting social justice.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Law and Social Justice

• Definitions of Law and Social Justice
• Historical Perspectives on Law and Inequality
• The Role of the Judiciary in Social Justice

Module 2: Theoretical Frameworks

• Critical Race Theory
• Feminist Legal Theory
• Intersectionality and the Law
• Theories of Justice and Equality

Module 3: Law, Race, and Civil Rights

• Historical Context of Civil Rights Law
• Landmark Cases: Brown v. Board of Education, Loving v. Virginia
• The Role of Law in Modern Civil Rights Movements

Module 4: Gender, Sexuality, and the Law

• Legal Approaches to Gender and Sexuality
• Reproductive Rights and Justice
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Legal Challenges

Module 5: Economic Justice and the Law

• Poverty and Law
• Labor Rights and Employment Law
• Housing, Health, and Access to Justice

Module 6: Disability Rights and Social Justice

• Legal Protections for Persons with Disabilities
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Case Studies in Disability Law

Module 7: Environmental Justice

• Environmental Law and Social Justice
• Climate Change and Legal Responses
• Indigenous Rights and Environmental Protection

Module 8: Criminal Justice Reform

• Mass Incarceration and Racial Disparities
• Police Reform and Community Safety
• Restorative Justice and Alternatives to Incarceration

Module 9: Global Perspectives on Law and Social Justice

• International Human Rights Law
• Comparative Approaches to Social Justice
• Global Social Movements and Legal Responses

Module 10: Advocacy and Action

• Legal Writing and Argumentation
• Policy Analysis and Advocacy Strategies
• Capstone Project: Legal Advocacy for Social Justice

Assessment:

• Participation and Attendance: 10%
• Case Study Analysis: 20%
• Research Paper: 25%
• Midterm Examination: 20%
• Capstone Project: 25%

Recommended Texts and Resources:

• Books:
  • “The New Jim Crow” by Michelle Alexander
  • “Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?” by Michael Sandel
  • “Critical Race Theory: The Key Writings That Formed the Movement” edited by Kimberlé Crenshaw
• Articles: Selected academic articles and legal opinions will be provided throughout the course.
• Multimedia: Documentaries, podcasts, and legal databases.

Prerequisites: None (although a background in basic legal principles or social sciences may be helpful).