Newswise — WASHINGTON – Following is the statement of Jessica Henderson Daniel, PhD, president of the American Psychological Association, regarding the Trump administration’s announcement that it will rescind guidelines on affirmative action in college admissions:
“This decision is short-sighted and ignores the scientific research demonstrating that diversity in higher education promotes harmonious and productive intergroup relations. There is ample scientific evidence supporting the overarching principle that institutions of higher education should be permitted to employ race-conscious admissions practices to promote the many educational benefits for all students associated with campus diversity.
“Underrepresentation of minority groups inhibits academic performance, fosters prejudice and hinders cognitive function. Additionally, subconscious racial bias continues to interfere with the effective education of nonminority students. Research has also shown that increased racial diversity improves intellectual and academic performance for minority and nonminority students, and that diversity in higher education improves civic engagement and professional competency.”
The American Psychological Association has filed five amicus briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the consideration of race in college admissions polices on the grounds that social science research confirms the benefits of such policies.
The American Psychological Association, in Washington, D.C., is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. APA's membership includes nearly 115,700 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 54 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance the creation, communication and application of psychological knowledge to benefit society and improve people's lives.
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