Civil and Human Rights Coalition Applauds Supreme Court Decision in College Diversity Case

WASHINGTON – Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement on today’s Supreme Court decision in Fisher v. University of Texas upholding diversity in college admissions:

“This decision is a victory for our nation’s young people, our universities, and our ability to compete in the global economy.    

After years of litigation in this case, the Supreme Court has determined that the University of Texas’ admissions program is constitutional. Today’s ruling continues the Court’s recognition of the importance of racial diversity in college admissions.   As Justice Kennedy noted in this decision, student body diversity is central to a university’s identity and educational mission, and the university must be given deference to pursue those goals.

It’s in the national interest for talented students from a variety of backgrounds to get a fair chance and an enriched educational experience. Providing a diverse learning environment benefits students, our workforce, and the country as a whole. And today’s decision makes clear that America’s educational, business, and other institutions can pursue fair and thoughtful ways of fostering diverse participation.”

Wade Henderson is the president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference and its 200-plus member organizations, visit www.civilrights.org.

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