WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-07) released the following statement:  

“The result of this case can be directly tied to individuals who have bankrolled multiple lawsuits to dismantle the Voting Rights Act. Race has never been a defining feature in admissions, and affirmative action has only ever given higher education institutions the opportunity to holistically consider students’ backgrounds, their contributions and how they will enhance the college experience. The far-right Supreme Court’s decision to gut affirmative action is devastating and inconsistent with previous court findings that have found race-based admissions policies can be implemented in a legal and constitutional manner. It threatens the progress we’ve made to provide equal access, opportunity and diverse learning environments for all students. As we move forward, it’s critical that we in Congress act to build and support an education system that demands equity in admissions, achieves student body diversity, dispels stereotypes, and ensures a high-quality and accessible education for all.”