Randall Kennedy

Ilya Marritz, a reporter focused on American higher education, digs into the funding battles facing Harvard under the Trump administration. Alongside him, Randall Kennedy, a Harvard Law professor and author, sheds light on the historical evolution of diversity within academia. They discuss the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings on affirmative action and the broader societal impacts. The conversation reveals how political influences challenge academic autonomy while raising critical questions about the future of diversity in schools.

Claudine Gay, the former president of Harvard University, and Randall Kennedy, a Harvard Law School professor, engage in a profound discussion about the shifting landscape of diversity in higher education. They explore Gay's leadership amidst controversies and the complexities that come with being Harvard's first Black president. The conversation also highlights the fallout from the Supreme Court's decision on affirmative action and how it impacts future admissions policies. Political pressures on academia and the historical context of diversity initiatives are examined, revealing a turbulent yet vital dialogue.

Randall Kennedy, the Michael R. Klein Professor at Harvard Law School, delves into America's complex racial history. He critiques critical race theory, differentiating his optimistic view on civil rights progress from its more pessimistic perspectives. Kennedy highlights transformative legal victories from the civil rights era and discusses the challenges of modern segregation and affirmative action. He advocates for broad coalitions in civil rights leadership, emphasizing the need for targeted reforms while acknowledging the limits of race-neutral arguments.

Randall Kennedy, a Harvard professor specializing in racial politics, discusses how Donald Trump weaponizes racial attacks to undermine Kamala Harris. Nicholas Thompson and Emily Glazer delve into the perils of misinformation on democracy, emphasizing social media's role and Elon Musk’s influence. They explore the far-right riots in the UK and the narrative surrounding Harris during her campaign. Meanwhile, young Afghan musicians of the Youth Orchestra share their harrowing experiences under the Taliban, illuminating the power of music as a symbol of hope.

Law Professor Randall Kennedy discusses objections to mandatory DEI statements in academia, advocating for transparency and intellectual diversity. He explores the complexity of DEI, distinguishing between affirmative action and equity goals. Reflecting on racial politics in universities, he addresses the challenges of diversity initiatives and emphasizes the importance of education in America.