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Pelosi Statement on Supreme Court Decision on Affirmative Action

June 24, 2013

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Supreme Court issued its decision returning the Fisher v. University of Texas-Austin case to the lower courts:

“Today’s Supreme Court decision drew the praise of civil rights organizations nationwide as it underscored the principle that diversity is a source of strength on campus and in our workforce, and that every student deserves the chance to realize the American Dream. Yet Justice Ginsburg’s dissent raises legitimate concerns: that the lower courts appropriately applied Supreme Court precedent and that government entities must not be blind to the lingering effects of discrimination in the past.

“For the sake of the strength of our economy, our society, and our institutions of higher learning, it is critical that we keep working to ensure that young people of all backgrounds, races, and ethnicities continue to receive a fair shot at a strong education – a firm and necessary foundation for success in the future.

“As the case returns to the lower court, we must keep up the fight to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to attend a college or university and that every student is prepared to compete in the global economy.”

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