ACLU President Deborah Archer Delivers Inaugural Galinson Solomon Lecture at California Western School of Law

SAN DIEGO (March 27, 2025) -- On March 18, 2025, California Western School of Law (CWSL) proudly hosted the Inaugural Galinson Solomon Lecture, featuring distinguished speaker Deborah Archer, President of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Professor of Clinical Law at New York University School of Law. The event marked a significant milestone in CWSL’s efforts to foster critical conversations about antiracism, justice, and equity while equipping students with the tools to engage meaningfully in these crucial issues. 

CWSL President and Dean Sean M. Scott delivered opening remarks, acknowledging the generous endowment established in 2022 with a lead gift from Elaine Galinson and Herb Solomon. The Galinson Solomon Endowed Fund for Antiracism, Justice, and Equity, made possible through their leadership and additional community support, funds this lecture series along with an endowed chair, scholars-in-residence, and student scholarships.  

“This fund allows the law school to advance critical conversations on racial justice and systemic inequality while preparing the next generation of ethical, competent, and compassionate lawyers,” said Dean Scott. 

In introducing Professor Archer, Dean Scott highlighted her dedication to advancing racial, educational, and economic justice, “She embodies the values we seek to uplift through this lecture series . . . She has spent her career challenging systems of inequality and illuminating the ways in which our laws, institutions, and public policies shape both opportunity and inequity.” 

In her lecture, Professor Archer emphasized the fundamental goal of civil rights work: “to close the gap between the America that was promised and the America that is.” Referencing Langston Hughes, she reminded the audience that "if we do the work, we have the power to make America America."  

During the Q&A portion of the event, Professor Archer responded to audience questions about the ACLU's ongoing work to address civil rights violations throughout the country.  

The Inaugural Galinson Solomon Lecture was made possible through the generous support of our community. If you would like to help CWSL continue fostering these vital conversations and opportunities for students, you can make a contribution to the Galinson Solomon fund here: Giving.  
 
About California Western School of Law   
For 100 years, California Western School of Law (CWSL) has trained practice-ready lawyers and thoughtful advocates for justice. As the first and longest-running law school in San Diego, CWSL remains committed to providing students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and real-world experience to thrive in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. CWSL enrolls a student body representative of our diverse society, amplifying access to opportunities for social and economic mobility. Tailored programming allows students to focus on specific areas of interest, and distinguished faculty are dedicated to student growth and scholarship on critical social issues. The law school emphasizes practical, hands-on training through clinics, internships, externships, and pro bono service. CWSL is committed to excellence in education, nurturing compassionate legal professionals who use the law effectively and creatively to solve complex human and societal problems. For more information, visit www.CWSL.edu.