Inclusive Excellence
We believe inclusion is a driver of academic excellence at our law school and enriches the co-curricular and learning environment. Our school is designed to be accessible to talented students from all segments of society, because our law school and the profession should reflect the communities we represent.
Photo: Jackman Law staff recognize U of T's Display Your Pride Day in 2024
We support our talented future lawyers and leaders
A commitment to inclusive excellence means removing barriers and putting the right supports in place for all to succeed. Our diverse student body and faculty create a strong sense of community, with broad perspectives that enrich the learning environment and profession as a whole.
$5M in JD bursary support awarded 82% of JD students who applied received financial aid $21,093 average first-year JD bursary
Barrier-lifting programs
Our collaborative community initiatives and outreach programs support talented students from diverse backgrounds prepare for the law school admissions process and a legal education.
Current Jackman Law students play an active role in two outreach initiatives, Black Future Lawyers and Law in Action within Schools as mentors, workshop leaders, and program ambassadors, contributing to a more inclusive and accessible legal profession.
Law students can get involved with the Indigenous Initiatives Office through a range of academic and experiential opportunities. It is a meaningful way to support Indigenous legal education and build relationships within the community.
BFL provides supports and engagement opportunities to Black undergraduate students who aspire to go to law school.
One of the largest law-related high school outreach programs in North America, LAWS impacts students facing personal or systemic barriers to success.
Deepening knowledge and understanding by integrating Indigenous perspectives and providing support to students at Jackman Law.
Inclusive admissions
Our holistic admissions process identifies exceptional students with distinct life experiences, and includes streams for Black and Indigenous applicants.
56% Women 45% Students of colour 82% First in family to attend law school 19% LGBTQ+ students
Dedicated leadership
The Office of the Assistant Dean, EDI, is dedicated to enhancing community and belonging at the law school. Collaborating with students, faculty and staff, the Assistant Dean, EDI supports a learning environment where every student feels seen, heard and empowered.
Learn more about EDI at Jackman Law
Inclusive Legal Education: EDI & Accessibility in Action
Building an inclusive community
Building an inclusive community is a shared priority reflected across student life, academics, and institutional support. Our students benefit from a wide range of affinity groups, mentorship opportunities, and learning opportunities that help foster belonging and reduce barriers. Our EDI workshops and Speaker Series, our emphasis on Indigenous perspectives, and inclusive orientation sessions enrich the learning environment.
Faculty Supporting Inclusive Excellence
Our faculty are thoughtfully engaged in equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility efforts, aiming to incorporate diverse perspectives and Universal Design principles into teaching and curriculum. Our faculty strive to support students from all backgrounds in meaningful, respectful, and academically enriching ways.
Enhancing Legal Education Through Equity, Accessibility and Wellness
Our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility Committee and our Mental Health and Wellness Committee work to shape a more compassionate, inclusive, and resilient academic environment. These committees develop strategies to champion inclusion, prioritize wellness and dismantle stigma surrounding mental health.
Programs for the public spirit
Public interest programs at the Jackman Law offer students opportunities to engage with law as a tool for social change. Through clinics, internships, and volunteer placements, students work on real-world issues like constitutional rights, international human rights, access to justice, and advocacy for marginalized communities. Flagship initiatives include the David Asper Centre for Constitutional Rights, Downtown Legal Services, the International Human Rights Program, and Pro Bono Students Canada, each providing hands-on experience and mentorship.
Communities within a community
The vibrant student life at Jackman Law is driven by our student-led groups who foster a dynamic and inclusive community where students connect through shared identities, legal interests, and cultural backgrounds. These groups range from the Black Law Students’ Association and OutLaws to the International Law Society, Women and Law Society, and Indigenous Law Students' Association, among many others. They create spaces for support, events, panels, and initiatives that expand the community’s understanding of diverse perspectives and lived experiences. It’s a powerful way students shape the culture of the law school together.