Brandeis School of Law’s 2025 Breonna Taylor Lecture Highlights Justice, Advocacy, and Community Impact

The University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law held its fourth annual Breonna Taylor Lecture on Structural Inequality on April 9, 2025, at the Speed Art Museum. The event brought together members of the legal community, students, faculty, and supporters to reflect on the legacy of Breonna Taylor and engage in meaningful discussion on the law’s role in ensuring justice and fairness.

This year’s theme, “Saving Our Democracy: Empowering Change Through Activism,” centered on the importance of civic engagement and the legal system’s capacity to advance equal treatment under the law.

A Powerful Keynote on the Law’s Role in Shaping Society

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Daniel S. Harawa, a clinical law professor and Director of the Federal Appellate Clinic at NYU School of Law. A nationally recognized scholar, Professor Harawa spoke on how legal doctrine—particularly surrounding the Fourth Amendment—has historically influenced policing practices in ways that disproportionately affect certain communities.

“We’re here today not just to talk about legal theory,” Harawa said, “but because law shapes lives—and it hasn’t always done so equally.”

In his remarks, Professor Harawa examined key Supreme Court decisions and urged a renewed commitment to fairness, transparency, and accountability within the legal system. He challenged law students and professionals to elevate their responsibility in shaping a justice system that works for all.

“Let’s not be deterred by challenges,” he said. “The work of justice is ongoing, and we all have a role to play.” 

Honoring Service and Strength

The law school also presented the Darryl T. Owens Community Service Award to Tamika Palmer, the mother of Breonna Taylor. Introduced by Professor Lonita Baker, the award recognizes individuals whose work exemplifies public service and dedication to justice.

“This award honors not only Ms. Palmer’s resilience,” said Professor Baker, “but her continued efforts to ensure that no other parent faces the same hardship without support.”

Palmer, in accepting the award, thanked the Brandeis School of Law and her extended community of supporters.

“Breonna was my world,” she said. “And everything I do now is about making sure her story is heard and that others are protected in the future.” 

Empowering the Next Generation of Legal Advocates

The program also recognized the 2025 Breonna Taylor Fellows—Edison Pleasants and Addison Rogers—two law students selected through a competitive process to carry out summer legal work focused on public interest initiatives. The fellowship is funded through a private donation by artist Amy Sherald and supports students pursuing opportunities that may otherwise be unpaid.

“Law school gives us the tools,” said Rogers. “But this experience gives us the confidence and community to make those tools matter.”

Pleasants added, “This fellowship honors someone who inspired me to enter the legal field. I’m proud to carry that legacy forward.”

The Fellows were also featured in a video during the event, highlighting their aspirations and the organizations they will be working with this summer.

A Community-Focused Event

The event was organized by Professors Laura McNeal, Lonita Baker, and Cedric Powell, with opening remarks by Dean Melanie B. Jacobs, who acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue on issues related to fairness and the rule of law.

“Ensuring the ideals of equality, equity, justice, and dignity for all people should be our common societal goal,” said Dean Jacobs. “Our commitment as educators is to equip students to be thoughtful, effective leaders in that system.”

Faculty, alumni, judges, students, and community leaders filled the auditorium, including University of Louisville President Gerry Bradley and numerous members of the local bench and bar. 

Continuing the Conversation

As the lecture series continues to grow in significance and attendance, it remains a signature program for Brandeis School of Law—providing an opportunity to reflect on the ways the legal profession can evolve to serve all people with fairness, dignity, and integrity. 

“We must ensure that justice is not only a legal principle,” said Professor Powell in closing remarks, “but a lived experience for every member of our community.”

 Photos from the event can be found here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/uofl/albums/72177720325107667/