Statement from Albert Einstein College of Medicine Regarding Supreme Court Decision on Race-Conscious Admissions
Albert Einstein College of Medicine is deeply disappointed by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decisions in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. (SFAI) v. President and Fellows of Harvard and SFAI v. University of North Carolina, which overturned more than four decades of precedent. Their decision, which eliminates consideration of race in admissions, removes an important tool used to limit segregation and diversify the medical and scientific workforce. Increasing the number of students from groups historically underrepresented in these fields has been instrumental in driving innovation, improving care, and advancing equity.
As noted in the dissent to the majority opinion: “In so holding, the Court cements a superficial rule of colorblindness as a constitutional principle in an endemically segregated society where race has always mattered and continues to matter.”
Since opening its doors in 1955, Einstein has maintained a deep commitment to social justice. When Albert Einstein agreed to lend his name to the institution, he specified that it must not discriminate based on “race or creed.” Regardless of today’s decisions, Einstein’s dedication to its foundational ideals will not waver. Working within the newly created restrictions, the College of Medicine will continue to pursue its mission: to train a diverse student body to become knowledgeable, compassionate physicians and innovative scientific investigators.
June 29, 2023