White People Think Differently

Abstract

In many regions of the country, aspiring minority lawyers pass state bar exams at a rate significantly below their Anglo counterparts. This short essay addresses this disparity. Professor Gomez argues that minority law students, particularly native students, are at a distinct disadvantage because the exam emphasizes concepts that are, to these students, alien. He maintains that law schools have an obligation to place minority students in an environment that encourages them to excel, not merely survive.

Professor Gomez recommends a package that goes beyond the traditional program of financial aid and academic support, and includes minority faculty, a diversified curriculum, potent student organizations, placement services and community involvement.

Keywords: minority lawyers, bar exam passage rates, minority law students, disparity between minority lawyers bar passage rates and anglo lawyers bar passage rates

JEL Classification: K10, K19