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WASHINGTON,
D.C. – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today joined members of
the Congressional Black Caucus to oppose Governor Jeb Bush's decision to
end affirmative action programs in Florida. At a news conference organized by Representative Corrine Brown (D-FL), Schakowsky said, "Rolling back affirmative action programs is not the answer. These programs have helped countless people of color and women achieve their dreams of going to college or succeeding in business. We are here to tell Governor Jeb Bush and all others that their actions are a step backwards for civil and equal rights." "We have made great strides nationwide, but it would be premature to declare affirmative action a complete victory. Now is not the time to abandon meaningful and successful measures that truly promote diversity and equal opportunity for all," Schakowsky added. Last week, Governor Bush announced his One Florida initiative. This program would eliminate affirmative action programs in education and state contracting. Race and ethnicity will no longer be used as factors in university admissions. Instead, the "Talented 20" Program will guarantee state university admission to the top 20 percent of students in every Florida high school senior class. In addition, the program would eliminate all racial set-asides and prices preferences for state contracts. |
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