Summer 2023 Page 14 CDU Newsletter
CDU Statement on Supreme Court Affirmative Action Decision
( June 29 , 2023 ) - The historic decision by the U . S . Supreme Court , ending affirmative action in higher education , is deeply disheartening and poses significant challenges for our mission at Charles R . Drew University of Medicine and Science ( CDU ).
As a private university dedicated to social justice and health equity , we believe this decision will have a damaging impact that will be counterproductive to the ideals of this great nation .
Founded in 1966 in the wake of the 1965 Watts Uprising , CDU emerged with a vision of achieving excellent health and wellness for all in a world without health disparities .
Our origin story is deeply intertwined with the pursuit of equality and justice , and we have steadfastly upheld these principles throughout our history .
CDU is proud to be ranked one of the nation ’ s most diverse private universities in terms of faculty and student composition .
We firmly believe that a diverse learning environment enriches the educational experience for all students and fosters the development of culturally competent healthcare professionals .
Today ’ s ruling will reverberate across campuses nationwide , including our own .
In California , where CDU is located , we already operate under the shadow of Proposition 209 , which banned the use of affirmative action involving racebased preferences .
The Supreme Court ’ s ruling further inhibits our collective efforts to increase the representation of students of color in the healthcare professions .
In a society where racial inequality and health disparities persist , it is crucial that we use every available tool to broaden diversity in healthcare for underrepresented communities .
The decision by the Supreme Court makes it ever more difficult to achieve a healthier future for everyone and undermines the progress we have made in advancing health equity and social justice .
CDU will continue to prioritize fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment .
We call upon policymakers , educators , and advocates to join us in addressing the systemic barriers that perpetuate health disparities and ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities to pursue a career in healthcare .
Together , we will continue to strive for a more equitable and just society .