Professor Vinay Harpalani Speaks on Racial Stereotypes and Admissions Litigation

California Western School of Law welcomed Professor Vinay Harpalani as the 2026 Galinson Solomon Scholar-in-Residence for a lecture examining Asian American discrimination and admissions litigation. 

A professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law and a leading scholar on race and law, Harpalani detailed the historical development of discrimination affecting Asian American communities and examined the origins and evolution of the "model minority" stereotype. He also explored how public discourse surrounding admissions policies have changed over time, including debates around higher education and competitive K-12 programs. 

Throughout the lecture, Harpalani guided attendees through significant appellate and Supreme Court decisions, discussing both the rulings themselves and the reasoning reflected in judicial opinions. 

The lecture concluded with a Q&A with inquiries from several California Western faculty and staff members on some of the more complex aspects of the discussion. 

Thank you to Elaine Galinson, Herb Solomon, and the generous donors to the Galinson Solomon Endowed Fund for Equity and Justice for making this lecture series possible. 

Professor Vinay Harpalani with Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development Emily Behzadi (left) and Dean Miriam Baer (right) 

California Western students give a warm welcome 

Dean Miriam Baer participates in the audience Q&A 

An audience full of students, faculty, and staff applaud the lecture by Vinay Harpalani