‘Just Cause’ asks: Whose truth is it?

Accused of “racial insensitivity,” a white artistic director in Chicago is suing the theater company for reverse discrimination.

The case goes to trial in front of a jury. Each side presents its arguments, for or against the lawsuit.

When oral arguments are complete, the judge turns to the jury and says, “You decide.”

In this case, the “you” is actually “you.”  

In Just Cause: The Experience, audience members become the jurors in the mock trial. After the final verdict, participants are invited to take part in a discussion to explore such subjects as biases and preconceived notions.

They also will be encouraged to talk about their personal experiences and how those affect the way they respond to societal issues.

“‘Just Cause: The Experience’ is pivotal for students, faculty and staff to participate in because it forces you to grapple with the complexities of race, class, gender and other social issues,” said A.J. Davis, coordinator of engagement in the Division of Diversity and Engagement. “Oftentimes, these issues aren’t black and white, and clear solutions aren’t always evident. By partaking in this experience, you have the opportunity to engage with people who you will disagree with.

“But you also have the chance to improve upon your ability to assess facts, all while cultivating deeper empathy for people and a more robust understanding of other’s experiences and perspectives. It is truly an eye-opening experience,” Davis said.

A follow-up discussion is set for March 2, one week after Just Cause, to give another chance to offer further thoughts and impressions.

Bringing Just Cause: The Experience to UTC was organized by the MOC (Moving Our Campus) Forward Planning Committee, the Office of Equity and Inclusion, the Division of Diversity and Engagement and the Adolph S. Ochs Professor of Government Michelle Deardorff