July 6th 2023.
The NAACP has recently launched its 'Diversity No Matter What' pledge in response to the Supreme Court's decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions. NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson said in a statement, “Black America is in a fight for our lives and the NAACP won't back down. We hope that our nation's institutions will stand with us in embracing diversity, no matter what.”
The pledge calls on colleges and universities to commit to taking specific steps to create and sustain a culture of inclusion, belonging, and respect. This includes eliminating racially biased entrance examinations, supporting the matriculation and retention of low-income and first-generation students through outreach programs and scholarships, and recruiting diverse faculty and staff.
Creating a welcoming and supportive campus climate is also key. This means valuing diversity, standing for equity, and advancing inclusion in all aspects of the college experience. Legacy admissions should also be eliminated to promote greater inclusivity. The pledge also calls for partnering with and supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and other Minority Serving Institutions.
The NAACP isn't alone in its fight against the Supreme Court's decision. The Chica Project, African Community Economic Development of New England, and the Greater Boston Latino Network are all filing lawsuits against Harvard University alleging its students receiving preferential treatment are “overwhelmingly white” and make up as much as 15% of admitted students.
These efforts show that the fight for diversity is far from over. The NAACP will continue to advocate, litigate, and mobilize to ensure that every Black American has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
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