University of Chicago BLSA Update

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Earlier today we reported on an unfortunate affair that took place at the University of Chicago Law School. BLSA members excluded white students from a public forum, causing the law school Dean and the BLSA president to issue an apology.

Since our initial story we’ve learned that the BLSA president has stepped down from that position, and has issued a more full apology and explanation about how events transpired:

For those who are concerned,

I have received phone calls throughout the day regarding the incident that I personally incited on Tuesday at a BLSA lunch event. Words cannot express the remorse I feel for having made the remarks that I did. First and foremost, I want you to know that my decision to exclude non-BLSA members (with the exception of those who showed active interest by joining our organizational listserve) did not reflect the position of the Black Law Students Association. I made the decision unilaterally and hastily (giving me greater empathy for George W.), to the disapproval of BLSA members who were clearer on the school’s strict policy of non-exclusivity. My lack of familiarity with this policy was inexcusable, and I take sole responsibility for the results. Additionally, exclusion, though wrong, was made on the basis of membership, not skin color.

Way to step up to the plate and accept responsibility.

Many people who sent this statement along noted that this statement — and not the questionable actions — is more indicative of the character of the former BLSA president.

People make mistakes all the time, but not everybody takes responsibility for their missteps.

Read the full statement after the jump.

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UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO LAW SCHOOL — STATEMENT TO LAW SCHOOL LISTSERV

For those who are concerned,

I have received phone calls throughout the day regarding the incident that I personally incited on Tuesday at a BLSA lunch event. Words cannot express the remorse I feel for having made the remarks that I did. First and foremost, I want you to know that my decision to exclude non-BLSA members (with the exception of those who showed active interest by joining our organizational listserve) did not reflect the position of the Black Law Students Association. I made the decision unilaterally and hastily (giving me greater empathy for George W.), to the disapproval of BLSA members who were clearer on the school’s strict policy of non-exclusivity. My lack of familiarity with this policy was inexcusable, and I take sole responsibility for the results. Additionally, exclusion, though wrong, was made on the basis of membership, not skin color.

Secondly, I made an un-politically correct comment in jest to a group of students who were unfamiliar with my reckless sense of humor, nor should they have been. I apologize to any individual whom I offended. That was not my intent. I am not racist, nor do I support off-color jokes made to insult. I just happen to be both audacious and a diehard fan of irreverent comedy.

I cannot emphasize enough the separation that should be made between my ill-advised decisions on Tuesday and the organizational position of BLSA. Current and past members are among the most conscientious, tolerant, and dynamic individuals you will ever come across in your lifetime. The legal community would be at a loss if our student body fosters a false, artificial perception of racial antagonism.

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I hope that this puts some of you at ease. I, on the other hand, must now deal with trying to find law firms accepting of black overt racists, upon my return to law. I have a list of six so far. If anyone has any others, please forward them. (Yet another joke, however unfunny.)

Best of luck on finals!

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