Thomas Daschle: “on Wednesday, the administration made a decision to oppose the University of Michigan's efforts to promote diversity on…”

“on Wednesday, the administration made a decision to oppose the University of Michigan's efforts to promote diversity on the campus. In making the announcement, the administration said that Michigan's process amounted to a quota, and that the university should look at other factors, such as economic and geographic backgrounds. Their statement ignores the fact that both of those factors, as well as others, are considered by the university and given the same weight as race. I have made clear on other occasions what I and many of my colleagues believe: The Michigan system is not a quota; the Michigan system is constitutional; and that President Bush made the wrong decision. Racial and ethnic diversity in our Nation's institutions of higher education is an important goal. A student body that reflects the diversity of America is a valuable resource for all of our students. But kind words and lofty rhetoric alone cannot open the doors of educational opportunity or guarantee a diverse student body. We must show our commitment through our actions. That is why today I am asking consent that we adopt a resolution that supports the University of Michigan.”