Two Panelists on Opposite Sides of the Ethnic Studies Debate Want to Continue the Conversation (Ep 48)

Oct 3

In a live, online discussion we co-hosted with Braver Angels on September 4th, 2025, eight panelists discussed whether Ethnic Studies should be required for high school graduation, whether such a course should even be offered at all, or whether the content is likely to do more harm than good.

Nearly 200 audience members from across the country listened in and posed questions as panelists shared their views and personal experiences, listened, and responded respectfully to audience questions. The conversation was lively, illuminating, and challenging at times, but it exemplified the value of civil dialogue when addressing controversial topics like this one.

A particularly noteworthy moment occurred near the end when Nicole Bernstein, a panelist opposed to Ethnic Studies, expressed a desire to continue the conversation with Albert Camarillo, one of four panelists in support of the course. This episode captures the fascinating conversation that took place between these two panelists just two weeks later. You can also view a video recording of the conversation here on our YouTube channel.

A video recording of the initial event with 8 panelists is available on our YouTube channel here, and an audio podcast episode is available here. Additional details, including brief bios of panelists, audience questions and comments, and updates on the California law that would have made Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement, are available here.