Should high school students be required to take an Ethnic Studies course? Should such a course even be offered at all, or is the content likely to do more harm than good? These were the questions that a diverse group of panelists discussed in a live, online “fishbowl” discussion we co-hosted with Braver Angels on September 4th, 2025.

Nearly 200 audience members from across the country listened in and posed questions as panelists shared their views and personal experiences, listened respectfully, and responded to the audience's 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 Niclole 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. They agreed to let us record that conversation, which you can listen to here. You can also view it here on our YouTube channel.

In a post-event survey, 88% of the audience respondents said they would recommend this event to others. Over 300 people have since viewed the video recording on our YouTube channel or the one managed by Braver Angels.

Additional details, including short panelist bios, questions and comments from the audience, and updates on the California law that would have made Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement, are available here.

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