7341. Diversity and the Corporation

Google, CBS, American Apparel, Fox News, the Weinstein Company, Wynn Resorts.  These are just a few examples of corporations that faced scandals involving discriminatory corporate cultures, racism, and sexual misconduct allegations against high-ranking executives.  These scandals occur at a time when U.S. corporations are struggling to establish business cultures that are diverse and inclusive more generally.  Set against this backdrop, this seminar will explore the relevance of diversity to corporate law, governance, culture, and theory.  Topics may include:  feminist and critical race engagement with law and economics; corporate diversity-related disclosure obligations required by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Nasdaq Stock Market; corporate board diversity quotas mandated by the state of California and international jurisdictions; shareholder activism related to diversity issues; the increasing use of so-called “#MeToo representations” in merger and acquisition agreements; and voluntary corporate initiatives such as racial equity audits and tying executive compensation to diversity performance. Suggested preparation: Business Organizations.