Thanks to the generous funding from LAFAC, the University of Miami School of Law was able to welcome back Professor Barnes, the founding faculty advisor of the Race & Social Justice Law Review, as part of our 15th Anniversary Celebration. His visit was a special opportunity to honor the Law Review’s legacy and reflect on its continued impact in promoting equity, inclusion, and critical dialogue within the legal community.
Professor Barnes’ presentation centered on the origins of the Race & Social Justice Law Review and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in legal scholarship. He shared stories from the journal’s founding, discussed how student editors helped shape its mission, and reflected on the ways it has grown to influence conversations on race, policy, and justice over the years. During his remarks, Professor Barnes shared a reflection that "sometimes you don't get to enjoy the shade of the trees you plant." As Professor Barnes was part of the foundation of RSJLR in 2008, he finally got to enjoy the shade of the trees he planted and witness how the Journal has flourished and continues to make an impact. His remarks reminded current members of the Law Review that their work continues a meaningful tradition of advocacy and academic excellence.
The event brought together current and former members of the Race & Social Justice Law Review, faculty, alumni, and students interested in public interest law and social justice. It served as both a celebration of the Law Review’s history and an inspiration for its future. Attendees shared how hearing directly from Professor Barnes deepened their understanding of the publication’s founding vision and renewed their commitment to its mission.
LAFAC’s support made this memorable and meaningful event possible, allowing the Miami Law community to engage with one of its foundational figures and reflect on the importance of centering justice in legal scholarship. We are deeply grateful for this funding, which helped foster connection, learning, and pride across generations of Miami Law students and faculty.
