Press Releases

Thompson Disappointed by Supreme Court Ruling on Affirmative Action

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), released the following statement regarding the United States Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Michigan’s ban on using race as a factor in college admissions:

“Today’s Supreme Court decision has set a precedent that will make it harder for minority students to receive a college education. Minority and underprivileged students already face serious disadvantages when pursing higher education. For years, affirmative action has helped to level the playing field so that minority students have the same opportunities as their white counterparts.”

“I am disappointed by the Supreme Court’s decision.  Today’s ruling will undo many gains of the last 50 years and will directly undermine the long accepted standard that colleges and universities have a compelling interest in obtaining the educational benefits that come from a diverse student population.”

Today the Supreme Court upheld Michigan’s ban on using race as a factor in college admissions. The justices said in a 6-2 ruling that Michigan voters had the right to change their state constitution to prohibit public colleges and universities from taking account of race in admissions decisions.

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