A legal action has been launched against Wisconsin’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) internship program, citing allegations of pervasive discrimination. This notably affects black students who reportedly feel marginalized by “social justice” inquiries and experience disappointment when their struggles are not deemed significant enough. The Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) is the organization behind this lawsuit against the State Bar of Wisconsin.
In a press release issued by WILL, it was revealed that the lawsuit challenges the “Diversity Clerkship Program.” The suit accuses the program of offering race-based advantages for internships, which are funded by compulsory State Bar dues purportedly supporting discriminatory programs and communications against Wisconsin attorneys. Skylar Croy, WILL Associate Counsel, said in a statement: “When the government discriminates based on race, it sows more division in our country and violates the Constitution in the process. WILL is standing up against discrimination and holding the State Bar accountable to the rights of its due-paying members.” The lawsuit seeks court intervention to cease funding for the program and requests relief for rights violations.
WILL further stated that participation in the “Diversity Clerkship Program” involves major Wisconsin entities such as Fiserv, GE Healthcare, Northwestern Mutual Insurance among others. These are facilitated by the University of Wisconsin amid recent disputes over DEI programs. The lawsuit filed by WILL argues that using dues from members to support race-based internships infringes upon the Constitution and legal precedent. Attorney Daniel Suhr expressed opposition to his mandatory dues funding programs deemed unconstitutional by the State Bar.
State Rep. Robin Vos (R) responded to the lawsuit with gratitude saying: “Thank you for fighting against racist discrimination!”
In another press release from WILL, it was highlighted that their Equality under the Law Project, initiated in 2021, has provided pro bono legal representation to 55 clients across 18 states. According to WILL, this demonstrates nationwide efforts towards equality in the legal sphere.
