Civil and Human Rights Coalition Calls on Ken Marcus to Clarify He Would Protect All Children’s Rights

WASHINGTON—In response to today’s hearing on Ken Marcus’ nomination to the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights, Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement:

“The nation’s children and families deserve an Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights with a demonstrated record of support for all of our civil rights laws and marginalized communities. Unfortunately, during today’s hearing Ken Marcus did not fully answer all questions and demonstrate his willingness and ability to enforce the laws protecting students from discrimination. This testimony is especially troubling given Secretary DeVos’ dismal record on civil rights.  In particular, Marcus’ failure to make clear that he understands all children, regardless of their citizenship status, have the constitutional right to enroll in public school was reckless and unacceptable.  We call on him to immediately clarify that he understands and would protect all children’s rights under the Constitution and the law.”

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is 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.