Youth Civil Rights Law

• Semester: Fall 2026
• Course ID: 296W
• Credit Hours: 2
• Unique: 31752

Registration Status: Waitlisted

Description

Taught by Paige Duggins-Clay.

This course examines the legal frameworks that shape the civil rights of children and youth in the United States, with a particular focus on education, juvenile justice, and access to legal advocacy.

Through case law, statutes, policy analysis, and real-world advocacy examples, students will explore the constellation of laws and policies that both support and limit student’s rights. The course centers on key issues including the right to education, school discipline and policing, student speech and expression, disability rights, discrimination and harassment, and language access. Students will also analyze the role of federal civil rights enforcement, including administrative complaints and litigation strategies, as well as emerging legal and policy debates shaping youth rights today.

Grounded in a movement lawyering framework, the course emphasizes the lived experiences of young people and the advocacy efforts of families, organizers, and civil rights practitioners. Students will engage in practical skill-building through simulated advocacy exercises, policy analysis, and the development of actionable tools and resources.