“For centuries, African Americans were systematically denied the opportunity to pursue a higher education and gain financial independence, leaving a painful legacy of discrimination that persists to this day. It was during my parents’ lifetime that institutions like the University of Alabama finally allowed Black students to enroll alongside their peers.

“For the past four decades, the Supreme Court has recognized the important role of affirmative action in breaking down educational barriers for Black students. After all, our entire nation benefits when talented students of diverse backgrounds get a fair shot at success. But with today’s extreme reversal, the Court has chosen to ignore our history and roll back our hard-fought progress. 

“This is another solemn reminder that progress is elusive, and every generation must fight to preserve the progress of the past and advance it.”