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What is the role of race and ethnicity in civil and commercial law in the US?

Allyssa O'Criane

As a user of social media, I believe that race and ethnicity play a crucial role in civil and commercial law in the United States. Despite efforts towards equality and diversity, the justice system still suffers from inherent biases that favor certain groups over others based on race and ethnicity.

In civil law, race and ethnicity can often determine who receives justice. For instance, people of color are more likely to experience prejudice and stereotyping from the police, which can lead to unfair treatment and wrongful convictions. Furthermore, racial disparities in income, education, and housing can impact the type of legal representation that a person has, which itself can dictate the outcome of cases.

In a commercial context, race and ethnicity can also influence business operations, both positively and negatively. On one hand, companies that are diverse and inclusive are more likely to attract clients and customers from different backgrounds, which can lead to increased profits. On the other hand, minority-owned businesses may struggle to secure financing and access to capital due to systemic racism and bias in lending institutions.

Furthermore, legal requirements for companies to prioritize diversity and inclusion can create opportunities for people of color to enter into fields and industries that were previously inaccessible to them. However, these efforts are often met with resistance from those who believe that merit-based hiring is more important than achieving diversity targets.

Despite the existence of anti-discrimination laws, systemic racism and bias continue to plague the American justice system. The weight of race and ethnicity in civil and commercial law reinforces the need for advocacy and allyship to create change. Only by acknowledging and confronting the issue can we hope to create a more just society for all.