Secretary Cardona emphasized the longstanding inequities faced by students of color in education and college access.
He stated that the decision dealt another blow to the fight for equal opportunity in the United States.
Secretary Cardona emphasized the longstanding inequities faced by students of color in education and college access.
He stated that the decision dealt another blow to the fight for equal opportunity in the United States.
United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona expressed his disappointment and concern over the Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action in colleges.
The ruling, which declared race-conscious admissions at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill as unconstitutional, was described by Cardona as a significant setback for creating diverse and inclusive campus communities.
Addressing the implications of the ruling, Secretary Cardona emphasized the longstanding inequities faced by students of color in education and college access.
He stated that the decision dealt another blow to the fight for equal opportunity in the United States. Despite this setback, Cardona reaffirmed the Department of Education’s unwavering commitment to providing educational opportunities for all Americans and promoting diversity in higher education.
Speaking directly to aspiring students, particularly those from underserved communities, Cardona encouraged them not to be discouraged by the ruling but to persevere in pursuing their educational potential.
He emphasized the vital contributions that students from diverse backgrounds make to colleges and the country as a whole, stating that their talent, ingenuity, perseverance, and ambition are essential for the nation’s success in the 21st century.
Cardona also addressed higher education leaders, urging them to maintain their commitment to creating campus communities that reflect the rich diversity of the nation.
He cited the importance of diversity in enhancing the college experience and preparing students from all walks of life to live, work, and lead together in a democratic society.
The Biden-Harris Administration stands ready to support these leaders in their pursuit of lawful practices that promote inclusivity and ensure educational institutions represent the vast and rich diversity of the American people.
The Supreme Court’s ruling declared that Harvard University and UNC violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment through race-conscious admissions policies.
Chief Justice John Roberts, in a majority opinion, argued that both Harvard and UNC’s affirmative action programs “unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful endpoints.” “We have never permitted admissions programs to work in that way, and we will not do so today,” he stated.
The decision has sparked several debates and discussions surrounding affirmative action and its role in fostering diversity and equal opportunity in higher education.
