The University Miami School of Law clinical program recently held their second annual kick-off, offering a valuable opportunity for students from various clinics to come together and explore Miami's diverse history. The event was an introduction to the new academic year, and a chance to build connections and deepen their understanding of the local community's cultural heritage.
“It is exciting that the cross-clinics kick-off has now become a tradition, orienting students to Miami’s history, showcasing critical community perspectives and wisdom, and providing a forum for new students to socialize and meet each other,” said Professor Tamar Ezer of the Human Rights Clinic.
Students had the opportunity to explore the historic Lyric Theater in Overtown, a site of profound cultural and historical importance. Local historian Keith Ivory provided an engaging introduction to the theater and its fascinating history. The event also featured a guest lecture by Dr. Marvin Dunn, Professor Emeritus in the department of psychology at Florida International University. A former naval officer, Dunn is renowned for his extensive writings on race and ethnic relations, with his work published in prominent outlets like The New York Times and the Miami Herald. As an author, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of Florida's history through books such as The History of Florida: Through Black Eyes and Black Miami in the 20th century.
The kick-off was a memorable event that not only enhanced the students' understanding of Miami’s cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds among clinic students. By exploring the city's historic sites and engaging with influential figures like Dunn, the students gained valuable insights into the rich tapestry of Miami's past and its enduring impact on the present. "By the end of this experience students [knew] more about the history of Overtown than 99 percent of the people who live in Miami-Dade County," said Dunn.
Lissie Albornoz, a student in the Human Rights Clinic, shared her insightful reflections on the experience in a blog post. “This visit was an eye-opening experience, as the center is dedicated to fostering innovation, economic and social mobility, business development, education, and family and community support within the Black community,” she wrote in her blog. “Finally, after almost nine years of living in Miami, I realized I had never visited Overtown or learned about its significant history, particularly the crucial role the Black community played in the city’s incorporation.
"Experiencing the firsthand accounts of the suffering and humiliations endured by the Black community was intense and sobering. While these stories are difficult to hear, they are an essential part of this country’s history, and it’s vital to know them to ensure such injustices are never repeated," she wrote.
Experiential education is central to School of Law’s mission to prepare students for modern legal practice. Through a diverse array of options, students can apply theory from the classroom to real-world legal problems.
Read more about Miami Law’s clinics.
