The recent decision by the Supreme Court of the United States rejecting affirmative action decides that equal access to higher education on the basis of race is unconstitutional and tragically drives us further from the ideals upon which our country was founded. With decades of data that show the disparities in our K through 12 education system, it is clear that not everyone has equal nor equitable access to quality education. Affirmative Action was one lever that sought to remedy these long-held systemic shortcomings and help guide us toward a more perfect Union.
Equally as troubling is the decision on student loan debt relief. Income inequality remains a systemic problem in the United States and nationwide the disinvestment in higher education has required students, especially those of color and LGBTQ students, to bear a greater proportion of that cost through student loans. This decision, like that on affirmative action, creates another barrier to equal access to higher education for marginalized populations, which includes LGBTQ people.Â
As an organization, LGBTQ Leaders in Higher Education advocates regarding LGBTQ issues within the global academy and for the public at large and to put more LGBTQ leaders into the ranks of higher education. We remain committed to working to address these inequities for all marginalized populations, including our LGBTQ students and members of our community.Â
–Board of Directors