TRENTON, New Jersey. June 30, 2023 (Biz Republic) — In response to the United States Supreme Court ruling to overturn affirmative action policies in regards to college admissions, Governor Phil Murphy condemned the decision and reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to promoting diversity and equity in New Jersey.
The Supreme Court’s decision prevents institutions of higher education from considering a student’s race as a factor in its holistic review of each applicant for admissions – an approach the Court has long considered permissible and that has helped students of color overcome barriers to higher education and career paths that require a college or advanced degree. “Sadly, this decision is yet another way in which the U.S. Supreme Court is taking our country backwards,” said Governor Murphy.
“Systemic inequities remain stubbornly rooted in our society, yet a college degree has long offered a path to opportunity and financial success. For generations, equitable access to higher education has meant social mobility for those who come from under-resourced communities. That too has been the heart of the American Dream – that if you work hard, you can achieve your dreams. But today’s decision will make it harder for many institutions to implement admissions policies that promote equitable access to education and that result in a student body whose members can learn from each other’s diverse backgrounds and perspectives.”
“The Supreme Court’s extreme stance does not reflect the values of New Jersey. My Administration remains committed to advancing equity in every area of our society and will be working with our partners in higher education to determine ways to promote equitable admissions within the constraints of this ruling,” added Murphy.
SEN. MENENDEZ STATEMENT
U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College:
“Striking down affirmative action in U.S. colleges and universities turns back the clock on progress, full stop. With a partisan decision to overturn more than five decades of legal precedent, six right-wing justices erected a roadblock in our nation’s painstaking march toward racial justice and inclusion. Affirmative action has allowed Americans of all races to pursue their passions and contribute to our society, and as evidenced by Justice Sotomayor in her powerful dissent — “Equal educational opportunity is a prerequisite to achieving racial equality in our Nation.” By effectively stripping away one of the most important tools we have had to achieve some measure of equal educational opportunity, this Court has undermined and eroded the American promise of equal opportunity itself.”
“We will never let a single, misguided decision halt our march toward a more equal and inclusive society. Diversity everywhere, from institutions of higher learning and corporate boardrooms to our justice system and the halls of power, is the source of America’s unmatched strength. This fact cannot be deterred or erased, even by some on the highest court in the land. And in the face of opposition, we will redouble our efforts to ensure that all institutions reflect the rich diversity of America.”
