Meaning: The quote by Constance Motley sheds light on a significant shift that occurred in the field of higher education during a pivotal time in history. The reference to "Columbia Law School men being drafted" alludes to the period during World War II when many men were called to serve in the military. This resulted in a shortage of male students at educational institutions, including law schools. As a result, women who had previously excelled in college were now being seen as suitable replacements for the vacant seats left by the drafted men. This shift marked a turning point in the traditionally male-dominated legal profession and opened doors for women to pursue legal education and careers.

Constance Motley, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and a trailblazer for women in the legal field. As an African American woman, Motley herself faced numerous challenges and barriers in her pursuit of a legal career. She was the first African American woman to be appointed as a federal judge and was a key figure in many landmark civil rights cases. Motley's words carry weight and significance not only due to her personal experiences but also because they reflect a broader societal shift in attitudes towards women in the legal profession.

The quote highlights the impact of external events, such as wartime drafting, on the composition of educational institutions. Traditionally, law schools and other professional programs had been predominantly male spaces, with limited opportunities for women to pursue advanced degrees and careers in law. However, the necessity created by the drafting of male students provided an unexpected opportunity for women who had excelled in their college studies. This sudden acceptance of women as candidates for the vacant seats at Columbia Law School represented a departure from the norm and a recognition of women's academic achievements and potential contributions to the legal profession.

The inclusion of women in the traditionally male-dominated spaces of law schools during this period was a significant step towards greater gender equality in the legal profession. It challenged long-standing assumptions about the capabilities and roles of women in the legal field and paved the way for future generations of female lawyers. The quote by Constance Motley thus serves as a reminder of the transformative power of external forces, such as wartime drafting, in reshaping societal norms and opening up opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities for progress and change. The unexpected vacancies at Columbia Law School created a window of opportunity for women who had previously been overlooked in the legal education system. This shift in perception and acceptance of women as viable candidates for legal education had a lasting impact, as it contributed to the gradual diversification of the legal profession and the advancement of gender equality in the field.

In conclusion, Constance Motley's quote captures a pivotal moment in the history of legal education and the broader societal shift towards greater gender inclusivity in the legal profession. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of external events in challenging traditional norms and opening up opportunities for underrepresented groups. Motley's words resonate with the ongoing struggle for gender equality and representation in the legal field, reminding us of the progress that has been made and the work that still remains to be done.