UCLA Law School Listening Exercise

Attendees at the chancellor’s Listening Exercise with the UCLA School of Law on February 27, 2025 expressed concern about the current political climate and its impact on higher education. One speaker highlighted the role of universities in addressing federal policy changes and interpreting potential rulings from the Supreme Court. Another speaker emphasized the vulnerability of undocumented students and others who may be impacted by changes in immigration policy. A speaker maintained that the vast size of UCLA sometimes leads to the siloing of departments and schools, and suggested a need for greater collaboration. The chancellor was asked about his views on the role of lawyers in society and the need for UCLA to strengthen its ties with the broader Los Angeles community. Speakers also asked how they can assist those individuals with limited access to legal resources. 

Themes

• Role of Universities: There was discussion about the role universities should play in the current political climate, with some speakers maintaining that universities should be actively involved in opposing policies they deem harmful. 
• Academic Freedom: Concerns were raised about the potential erosion of academic freedom, particularly regarding the expression of unpopular ideas and research on sensitive topics.
• Immigration: The impact of immigration policies on undocumented and international students – and the university’s responsibility to protect them – was a major concern. One speaker described the effectiveness of the UCLA Advisory Council on Immigration Policy (ACIP) in handling past issues.
• Federal Policies: There was significant discussion about the potential negative impacts of federal government policies on higher education, including funding cuts, restrictions on research, and changes to student aid.
• Access to Legal Services: The importance of universities, particularly law schools, in providing access to legal services and serving the needs of underserved communities was highlighted. Speakers also discussed the role that UCLA Law can play in providing legal services to underserved communities.
• Strengthening Connections with Local Communities: There was a desire to see UCLA, including UCLA Law, play a more active role in engaging with and serving their local communities.
• Silos Within Universities: The issue of silos within large universities, and the ways in which silos can hinder collaboration and communication, was raised during discussion.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Concerns were expressed about the potential dismantling of EDI programs on college campuses across the country.