486 Jurisprudence (Bains & Vigneux)

LAW486 Jurisprudence

Critical Perspectives on Race and the Law

(Niki Bains and Sylvie Vigneux)

Prerequisite courses:

Prerequisite for:

Instructor(s): Niki Bains and Sylvie Vigneux

Course credit: 3

Method of presentation: Seminar

METHOD OF EVALUATION

Participation (15%)

Short Critical Reflections (3 X 10%)

Final Paper (30%) and Presentation (25%)

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Racism is a system of power. Canadian law is an important site where racism manifests and is perpetuated. However, the law can also be a site of intervention. This course will examine the relationships between constructions of race, racism, and the law in Canada, both historically and contemporarily. Drawing on critical race theory, students will explore legal doctrine, decisions, and strategies to test the law’s claims to neutrality. Students will examine how legal structures and norms operate across contexts, from courtrooms and classrooms to borderlines and bodies. As we work through this complex material, students will be encouraged to situate themselves socio-historically as individuals, community members, and future lawyers. Collectively, the class will work toward developing anti-racist strategies for legal practice.

SPECIAL COMMENTS

Description updated 2021-22. Please contact the instructor for any specific questions you may have related to this particular course section.

REQUIRED TEXTS (IF ANY)

No textbook required. Readings will be posted online.