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WASHINGTON - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement responding to the Supreme Courts decision June 28 on school desegregation:
"The Supreme Court's decision in Parents Involved v. Seattle School Dist. No. 1 is more than just a disappointment. It's a slap in the face to all those who have fought to ensure that this country lives up to promise of liberty and the ideals laid out by our founding fathers. It's a monumental step backward in the fight against the cruel reality that even in the 21st century, there are still far too many areas where racial discrimination and segregation exist, especially in education.
More than fifty years ago, nine courageous men struck down the status quo policy of 'separate but equal.' They recognized that segregated schools inevitably lead to inequality because majority white schools get the most resources. Unfortunately, yesterday's decision makes it easier for governments on all levels to turn their back on Brown v. Board of Education. It renews the risk of deepening current racial segregation, facilitates increased patterns of re-segregation and helps tolerate inferior schools for children of color.
Diversity -- and all of the benefits it brings to our country economically, socially and spiritually -- is more than just a worthy goal to be pursued by our local schools. It is a necessary one. In an increasingly global marketplace, we do our children and our institutions a disservice if we do not have a learning environment that is reflective of society.
Justice Stevens is painfully correct that those who worked hard to support the letter and spirit of Brown v. Board of Education would disagree with the current court's ruling. It is a tough lesson and a sad reminder that unless we remain vigilant, an election here and a change in the bench there can easily erode what is right and just."
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