LAW656K

038108

This course provides a survey of select post-9/11 U.S. national security laws and policies that have directly affected Arabs, Muslims, and South Asians in the U.S. and elsewhere. We will read and discuss the legal underpinnings of certain policies and practices, the strengths and weaknesses of such policies and practices, related legislative proposals, and responses by rights advocacy and community groups. Topics for discussion include material support for terrorism laws, targeted immigration enforcement efforts, counter radicalization programs, terrorist watch lists, national security letters, the PATRIOT Act, and fusion centers. Students will analyze case law, executive branch policies, statutory law, and proposed legislation to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the various viewpoints relevant to these hotly-debated topics. While time will be devoted to developing a foundational understanding of the relevant laws and theories, the majority of readings and class discussions will focus on the practical policy and political implications of the post-9/11 national security regime and how it has impacted racial, ethnic, and religious minorities in the U.S. To provide a historical context, discussions will also include the relationship between these current events and the historical treatment of immigrants and other racial and religious minorities in America.

ALT - Alternative Grading +/- A,B,C,D,E,S,P,F

Law