The Midwest has its own unique history and dynamics when it comes to race and the law. Many of our students, staff, and faculty hail from rural Wisconsin towns and cities that may be over 99% white, demographics that often reflect a history of racially exclusionary laws and policies. The urban areas are much more diverse, with significant Black, Latino and Asian populations. Yet in these urban areas Wisconsin is home to some of the nations’ greatest socio-economic disparities between Black and white communities. This section provides readings about the history and present of diversity in our state.