DNC Chair Jaime Harrison released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action in college admissions: 

“Today, in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard and Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. University of North Carolina, the Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions policies at Harvard and The University of North Carolina, effectively barring the use of affirmative action in college admissions and rolling back decades of precedent that expanded access to higher education by leveling the playing field for underrepresented communities in the admissions process.  

“Higher education has long been called the great equalizer, helping to bring all Americans closer to the promise of the American Dream. As a Black, first-generation college student from the South who attended college with many legacy students, I’m living proof of just how impactful accessible higher education can be not only for students but for entire families looking to set a foundation for a better future. By acknowledging the need for increased diversity – not ‘colorblindness’ – affirmative action has opened countless doors for underrepresented and underrecognized communities, giving them the same opportunities as those at the very top. Our communities, and our entire country, have been well served by this diversity and we must continue to fight to ensure these doors remain open for those who need it the most.   

“This is a devastating blow for racial justice and equality, especially as barriers to higher education become more restrictive. We condemn the Supreme Court’s decision to end these affirmative action policies and make it even more difficult for Americans to access higher education. While this decision is a setback in our fight for equal representation, it is not the final word. As Democrats, we know that diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths and we will continue to fight for equal access to education for all.”