The Sconi

The Wisconsin State Bar has agreed to abandon its discriminatory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program following a lawsuit brought by the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL). The settlement reached between the State Bar and WILL has resulted in significant changes to the DEI program, ensuring that all law students have equal opportunities to participate based on merit rather than race.

WILL Associate Counsel, Skylar Croy, expressed, “Defeating unconstitutional DEI programs has become WILL’s area of expertise, and we are not stopping here. While we are pleased with this victory, we know the fight is far from over.” Croy emphasized that this settlement is just the beginning of a movement towards fairness and equality in legal education.

WILL Client, Daniel Suhr, applauded the settlement, stating, “Premier internship opportunities should be available to students based on merit—not race.” Suhr, an accomplished attorney in Wisconsin, partnered with WILL to set a precedent for future generations of law students.

UW Law Student, Samatha Crane, highlighted the significance of the settlement, noting that it will provide all law students with an equal opportunity to participate in the Diversity Clerkship Program. Crane emphasized the importance of considering individual experiences and perspectives in promoting true diversity.

George Clark, another UW Law Student, expressed optimism about the settlement, stating, “This settlement offers all students—regardless of race—a fair shot at competitive opportunities.” Clark hopes that the Wisconsin State Bar will prioritize diversity of thought over quotas in the future.

The settlement requires the Wisconsin State Bar to open its Diversity Clerkship Program to all first-year law students based on merit, without discriminating based on race. The new definition of “diversity” emphasizes including individuals with differing characteristics, beliefs, experiences, interests, and viewpoints. This definition aims to promote an environment of respect and understanding for all individuals, regardless of their differences.

While the settlement marks a significant victory, the legal battle between WILL and the State Bar continues on other aspects, including the collection of dues from members. This lawsuit is part of WILL’s nationwide Equality Under the Law Project, with the goal of ending race-based discrimination programs in bar associations across the country.

The settlement agreement can be accessed for further details on the changes implemented by the Wisconsin State Bar.