Graduate Research Spotlights

Shubham hails from a rural community situated in Uttar Pradesh, India, predominantly comprised of individuals from socially marginalised backgrounds. He has dedicated his scholarly endeavours to probing the intricate phenomenon of caste discrimination. This rigid social stratification system, deeply rooted in hierarchical lineage, forms the focal point of his research. Shubham's inquiry delves into the discrete manifestations of discrimination experienced by individuals belonging to lower castes in both South Asia and Canada. Utilising the Critical Caste Theory (CCT) framework, Shubham not only explores but also extends this theoretical perspective within the context of his thesis. His work advocates for the regulation of caste-based discrimination across diverse spheres, encompassing areas such as employment, matrimonial alliances, housing, dining practices, and general social interactions. His comprehensive analysis not only enhances the nuanced understanding of caste discrimination but also provides valuable insights for scholars engaged in the study of anti-discrimination laws. Furthermore, Shubham's research equips fellow researchers with the tools to employ the CCT framework in scrutinising various forms of discrimination afflicting human society.

Shubham, an alumnus of National Law University, Lucknow, holds a dual B.A. LL.B.(Hons.) degree. Despite his brief professional journey, he has significantly contributed to the apex Judicial, Executive, and Legislative branches of the Government, actively engaging in policy formulation and implementation. These experiences have endowed him with a multifaceted perspective and invaluable knowledge, fostering his growth as a scholar.

His notable roles include serving as a Legal Consultant at the Department of Justice, Government of India. Here, he collaborated closely with the World Bank on the Law Ministry's initiatives, focusing on policy and legislation aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business in India. Prior to this, Shubham worked as the Legislative Assistant to Mr Mahesh Poddar, a Member of Parliament in India. Additionally, he contributed as a research assistant to Justice DY Chandrachud, Chief Justice of India, and Justice DK Upadhyaya, Chief Justice of the High Court of Bombay.

Recently, Shubham successfully completed his LLM at Windsor Law, where his thesis on caste discrimination received acclaim and was nominated for the prestigious Governor General’s Gold Medal Award. His exceptional academic achievements reflect his dedication to rigorous research and analysis.

Shubham plans to continue his academic pursuits and teaching endeavours, further enriching the scholarly landscape. His future aspirations include undertaking a doctoral program, demonstrating his commitment to advancing legal scholarship and contributing significantly to the field.

 

Esentsei is from the Six Nations of Grand River Territory and Wikiwemikoong Unceded Territory, currently residing in Toronto. Esentsei researches the impacts of colonization on the authority of Haudenosaunee women. The assumed sovereignty over Indigenous peoples has contributed to violence against Indigenous women, Indigenous women's mental and physical health issues, and Indigenous women's ability to participate in their communities and families. Esentsei's thesis allows other Indigenous students to reference material written by another Indigenous student that understands the struggle of navigating our colonial systems.

Esentsei has now completed her LLM at Windsor Law. Esentsei has also finished her first year of her PhD at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, researching Indigenous tattooing and how it carries Indigenous laws. While completing her LLM thesis, Esentsei has also taught at UWindsor in the JD program in Faculty of Law, and in the Social Sciences department. Esentsei is truly a valued member of the Windsor Law community and embodies the competency The Windsor Law LLM Program seeks. Esentsei will also be the first Haudenosaunee Anishnawbe Kwe (Indigenous) graduate of The Windsor Law LLM Program, walking the stage at the Spring 2023 Law Convocation ceremony.