President Huang: Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Affirmative Action

University News

President Huang: Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Affirmative Action

June 29, 2023

Today, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) reversed its previous rulings on affirmative action and determined that the use of race by colleges and universities in student admission policies is unlawful. We stand with our peer institutions of higher education who have issued statements announcing their commitment to continue striving to close equity gaps for Black, Latinx, low-income, working adults, rural students, and all marginalized communities.

WIU will fully adhere to the requirements of the law and follow the guidance we anticipate will come from education agencies. While we are still determining whether adjustments in our current policies are required, we will continue to support all students' ability to secure a college degree in an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

At Western Illinois University, we celebrate diversity and continuously work toward a better future for our students. WIU's office of Justice, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (JIDE), which was created to strengthen and advance the University's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, along with WIU administration, will continue to show our support for our students and community. For more information on JIDE, visit wiu.edu/jide. Together, we will uphold and strengthen our University's commitment to social justice, equity, and diversity, and together, we will stand up to hate and racism.

Guiyou Huang, Ph.D.
President