LACCD Board of Trustees and Chancellor Issue Statement Regarding SCOTUS Decision on the Use of Race in College Admissions
LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) issued the following statement regarding the SCOTUS decision on the use of race in college admissions:
“As the largest community college district in the nation, we see firsthand the critical importance of educational access for all and the benefits of a diverse student body towards fulfilling our service and educational mission. This decision, while disappointing and expected, is a setback for higher education and further erodes our democracy. The cruel irony is the use of race in affirmative action was initially constructed to redress and remedy generations of systemic oppression and sanctioned exclusion caused by racial prejudice,” said Chancellor Francisco C. Rodriguez, Ph.D.
“So, to exclude race now is a step backward and will impact the racial diversification of our colleges and universities, and the democratization of our society. Removing this tool and placing educational barriers translate to students and communities being left behind. This SCOTUS decision should serve as a brutal wake-up call and opportunity to strengthen our resolve in higher education to improve and eradicate racial and social justice inequalities through education.”
“The LACCD Board of Trustees vehemently disagrees with the Court’s recent decision to ban race as part of university admissions criteria. Diversity, equity and inclusion are core values at our institution, and every person deserves the opportunity for a high-quality, accessible and affordable education,” said LACCD Board of Trustees President, David Vela. “This decision reminds us of the critical role that community colleges play and the immense benefits of an open admissions policy that builds a diverse student body. We stand in solidarity with students who will be affected by this decision and will do all we can to successfully remove barriers to higher education.”
