Today, in a 2-0 decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit ruled that Harvard's race-conscious admissions process does not violate civil rights law when the university selects an incoming undergraduate class.
The Harvard Latino Alumni Alliance (HLAA) has released the following statement:
Higher education serves a critical role in equipping future leaders with the cultural acumen and empathy to lead in a globalized world. Now more than ever, we need to elevate diverse perspectives that will help serve as the bridge that will heal a divided world.
The Harvard Latino Alumni Alliance celebrates this ruling as a major win for education, equity, and the rule of law. It is a strong signal to colleges and universities across the country that they can continue to do the arduous work of shaping diverse student bodies that elevate the learning experience for all.
On behalf of the more than 16,000 Harvard Latino students and alumni, we would like to thank the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. without whom this victory would not have been possible. We look forward to partnering with them in upholding race-conscious admissions as the plaintiffs seek a Supreme Court appeal.