Scott Statement on Ruling in Harvard Affirmative Action Case
WASHINGTON – Chairman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after a district judge in Boston upheld Harvard's admissions process in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. Harvard Corporation.
“The District Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. Harvard Corporation affirms the constitutionality of admissions policies that recognize that there is a compelling interest in advancing a diverse student body. There is extensive research that diverse campuses expand access to a quality, well-rounded education.
“The statistical analysis highlighted in this case reveals an important fact about current admissions policies. Race and ethnicity are among the many criteria that institutions of higher education evaluate in their quest to ensure a diverse learning environment. It is curious that this lawsuit seeks to cast aside these criteria without giving similar scrutiny to the role of legacy admissions and familial connections.
“While today’s ruling will certainly be appealed as part of Edward Blum’s continued campaign to undermine opportunity and representation for people of color, the decision sends an important message to schools across the country: Our courts still recognize that pursuing a racially diverse campus is both legal and in the best interests of students.”
Chairman Scott is a graduate of Harvard College.
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