Black applicants may apply as Access & Equity Applicants. We evaluate Access & Equity applications through a holistic review process that considers academic as well as non-academic strengths and achievements. Applicants are welcome to self-identify in the application process and are encouraged to use the Personal Statement to discuss non-academic strengths and achievements.

• Black Law Students’ Association (BLSA): The University of Ottawa is home to an award-winning chapter of the Black Law Students’ Association of Canada. BLSA provides Black law students with opportunities for mentorship, social connections, and academic and professional development.  
• Julius Alexander Isaac Diversity Moot: Named after the late Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Appeal, Julius Alexander Isaac, the first Black judge to sit on the Federal Court of Canada, this annual competition focuses on an area of law in which issues of equity and diversity arise, often incorporating elements of critical race theory into the problem.  The Black Law Student Association of Canada administers the Julius Alexander Isaac Moot in collaboration with law firms, law schools and community organizations.
• Courses engaging racial (in)justice: The Faculty of Law curriculum offerings include courses engaging critical race theory and issues of racism and anti-racism in law and legal practise, such as:  
  • Law and Society: A Legal History of Racism 
  • Race, Gender and Legal Culture 
  • Equal Justice Advocacy 

See the Course Search Engine for more information. 

• Black Students Support Group: A support group for Black uOttawa students from all faculties, facilitated by two psychotherapists of colour.  
• Equity and Student Success Counsellor: The Faculty of Law has a dedicated counsellor who will work with you to help clarify various personal issues and learn strategies that can help you cope with the challenges you are facing in your educational, personal and professional lives in order to promote a successful experience in law school. Specialized referrals can be made by the Equity & Student Success Counsellor to an appropriate service.
• Wellness Resources: The Faculty of Law has in-house counselling services to support law students’ mental health. Students can request a Black counsellor