Boston, Massachusetts – As he marked his 30th year of teaching constitutional law at Boston College Law School, Professor Kent Greenfield delivered a sobering final lecture to his first-year students, reflecting on the current state of democracy and legal practice in the United States.
Greenfield acknowledged the challenges that accompany teaching constitutional law during tumultuous times, stating that both educators and students are navigating a “dangerous moment.” He urged his students to consider the fragile state of their democracy and the legal principles underpinning it, citing historical examples to illustrate his points.
He recalled the story of Joshua Chamberlain, a professor and Union officer during the Civil War, who played a pivotal role on the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Chamberlain’s bravery and decisive action at Little Round Top, where his outnumbered regiment faced overwhelming Confederate forces, turned the tide of the battle. “History is shaped by individuals who possess the courage to act wisely during critical junctures,” Greenfield remarked.
As he guided the students through their coursework, Greenfield emphasized the inherent vagueness of the Constitution, which relies heavily on moral norms rather than strict rules. He pointed out that the effectiveness of democracy hinges on the integrity and good faith of its leaders, a reality many may not have fully recognized prior to their law studies.
Greenfield expressed deep concern for the current legal landscape, particularly in light of unprecedented actions and attitudes seen in political circles. He described a troubling trend: the delegitimization of the judiciary, erosion of due process, and a concerning disregard for checks and balances. He highlighted alarming instances, such as the separation of families and the silencing of dissent, which serve as stark reminders of governmental overreach.
Drawing on the historical context of the disputed 1876 election, Greenfield reminded students of the era’s catastrophic consequences, where the decision to compromise led to generations of oppression in the South. “Mistaken choices at pivotal moments can have long-lasting repercussions,” he cautioned.
He also connected the present to recent global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, urging students to recognize their role as legal advocates in times of uncertainty. “As future lawyers, you are the watchdogs of democracy,” he stated. “It is your duty to sound the alarm about threats to the public and to safeguard the rights of those in jeopardy.”
In pointing out the troubling behavior of some law firms that have capitulated to political pressures, Greenfield reinforced the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity. He criticized those who have abandoned diversity initiatives and aligned themselves with questionable causes, urging that the legal profession must resist compromises that undermine fundamental values.
He acknowledged the unique pressures faced by law students today, paralleling their experiences with those of medical students who have had to navigate crises during their training. Greenfield stressed the significance of their efforts, stating, “What you are doing is essential. We need your voices now more than ever.”
In concluding his lecture, he delivered a rallying call for the legal community to fight for its principles and for democracy itself. “Let’s not yield; instead, let’s gather our resolve and take action,” he urged his students, invoking Chamberlain’s historic command: “Fix bayonets.”
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