Victor Fazio: “today my colleagues and I have the opportunity to increase access to higher education for all Americans by supporting…”

“today my colleagues and I have the opportunity to increase access to higher education for all Americans by supporting H.R. 6. However, a proposed amendment by Congressman Riggs promises to have the opposite effect by eliminating affirmative action and closing the window of opportunity that higher education offers. As Americans, we are committed to equal opportunity for all, and special treatment for none. All of us should have the opportunity to perform and prove our capabilities. Proponents of anti-affirmative action believe that we lower standards when we support these particular programs. On the contrary, I believe that we raise the standard by admitting individuals from diverse backgrounds. They in turn, will provide the role models to enrich and properly reflect the American fabric. We level the playing field by allowing the under represented population to compete in arenas historically closed to them. I am concerned about any legislation that eliminates state and local efforts which are designed to increase opportunities for women and minorities--services like counseling and recruiting programs to boost enrollment among minority youth, and math and science programs developed to help girls in secondary school. Higher education is filled with preferences.…”