Update: Chancellor, faculty perspectives on Law School controversy

On Friday, March 9, senior faculty of the University of Wisconsin–Madison Law School and UW–Madison Chancellor John D. Wiley issued separate statements that offer both an informed look back at the classroom controversy and fresh ideas on how to reestablish a constructive dialogue and heal damaged relationships.

The Law School statement, signed by 49 senior faculty, takes a forward look at the issue. “Although the last few weeks have been painful and while we now confront the challenge of repairing the reputation of our institution and its faculty and students, we are proud that our students are willing to challenge us and that we as their faculty are willing to engage these issues,” the statement reads. “As lawyers, we live in a world of words. Words can wound, but now it is time to show that they can also heal.”

Chancellor Wiley’s statement also identifies opportunities for greater engagement in the wake of the controversy. “The Hmong represent a vital, valued and growing presence here,” Wiley says. “Recent events have shown that we have more work to do in bridging cultural gaps and sustaining a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.”

Adds Wiley: “We have a multi-cultural campus, but the campus also has a culture of its own. It is one where intellectual integrity demands that we challenge ideas. In a society where aspects of race and ethnicity are often misunderstood, we will not chill the honest discussion of these often-volatile issues, and others.”

These statements follow other perspectives posted March 5 from Law Professor Leonard Kaplan and Law School Dean Kenneth Davis. UW–Madison will continue to provide updates on this issue as they develop.