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The State Bar of Wisconsin has reached a settlement to redefine the concept of “diversity” in its Diversity Clerkship Program, following a challenge by the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty.
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Victory Claimed by Both Sides
Skylar Croy of the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty hailed the settlement as a “victory,” while the State Bar of Wisconsin asserted its success in defending the program.
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Allegations of Discrimination Dismissed
The lawsuit filed by the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty on behalf of lawyer Daniel Suhr alleged that the program discriminated based on race. However, the State Bar of Wisconsin emphasized that the Diversity Clerkship Program does not engage in racial discrimination.
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Program Details
The clerkship program offers paid summer internships at various legal entities in Wisconsin and will continue to be open to all first-year students from Marquette University Law School or the University of Wisconsin Law School who are in good standing.
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Redefined Definition of Diversity
As part of the settlement, the definition of diversity has been revised. It now includes individuals with differing characteristics, beliefs, experiences, interests, and viewpoints, aiming to foster an environment of dignity and respect for all individuals, irrespective of differences.
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Removal of Exclusivity Claims
The settlement prohibits the State Bar of Wisconsin from suggesting or implying that only students from historically excluded or socially disadvantaged backgrounds are eligible for the program.
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Future Implications
The settlement marks a significant development in the ongoing conversation surrounding diversity programs and legal challenges related to them. Skylar Croy expressed optimism that the lawsuit’s outcome would pave the way for similar victories across all states.
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Legal Background
The lawsuit referenced the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court case, Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, which addressed race-conscious admissions programs in higher education.
Next Steps
While the challenge to the diversity program will be withdrawn, Suhr retains the option to continue contesting the use of his mandatory dues for activities he deems unrelated to legal profession regulation or service improvement.
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Media Coverage
Several publications, including Reuters, Law360, and the Wisconsin Examiner, reported on the settlement, highlighting its significance in the legal landscape.
