Statement by The Valedictorian Project on the Supreme Court's Decision on Affirmative Action

This week’s decision by the United States Supreme Court to restrict the use of Affirmative Action in college admissions is deeply disappointing. 

At The Valedictorian Project — established in January 2019 in response to an epidemic of untapped potential among high school students of color in Boston, we firmly believe that every student deserves an equal opportunity to thrive in college and beyond. We also know that many students of color experience pervasive barriers and significant hardships along their educational journeys that their white counterparts do not.

This decision ignores systemic inequalities and disregards the lived realities of people who face discrimination and disadvantage due to their race or ethnicity. It fails the many remarkable students across the country who have demonstrated their potential and aspirations for bright futures. Without actively working against the roadblocks that exist for young people of color, it’s impossible to ensure equal access to opportunity for all. 

At The Valedictorian Project, we believe that fostering diversity, inclusion, and equity is not only a moral imperative but also critical for the long-term success and prosperity of our nation. This ruling, while devastating, does not change our steadfast commitment to supporting students from historically underrepresented backgrounds and ensuring they have the mentorship and network necessary to thrive in college and beyond.