This summer, the Supreme Court let stand a decision by the U.S. 5th Circuit that denies higher education institutions in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi the freedom allowed by the 1978 Bakke case to use affirmative action programs in admissions. And this November, Californians will vote on a ballot initiative, which, if passed, would outlaw state-related programs and policies that provide opportunities to persons from disadvantaged minority groups throughout the state. To ensure that the American public understands the potential health-care outcomes of ending affirmative action too soon, the AAMC has spearheaded a coalition that unites the nation's leading medical, health, and education associations in support of affirmative action in higher education. Officially launched August 1 in Washington, the coalition will provide leadership for the affirmative action debate for health professionals nationwide. America must come to grips with the fact that slavery was America's original sin, and race remains its unresolved dilemma.
Discrimination based on race is a reality in both overt and subtle forms.
In the coming weeks, Health Professionals for Diversity will distribute information kits, launch a media campaign, and initiate other advocacy activities to raise awareness of the contributions made by minority health professionals to the nation's health-care system and their important role in delivering care to medically underserved populations. As Health Professionals for Diversity, we believe that ending affirmative action now will be decidedly unhealthy for this nation. And we are committed to working together to make sure that America gets that message. Currently, more than 30 organizations are members.