University of Michigan’s Affirmative Action Admission Policy Upheld

US District Judge Patrick Duggan ruled Wednesday that the University of Michigan’s use of affirmative action in its admission procedure is constitutional. Judge Duggan ruled in a case brought on by two white students who charged that U of M’s use of race as a factor in admission was unconstitutional and discriminatory against whites. In his decision, Judge Duggan said that the practice of giving minority applicants’ an edge because of race is just as constitutional as giving children of alumni and superior students an upper hand in the admissions process. According to the Associated Press, Judge Duggan lauded Michigan’s admission practices, saying a “racially and ethnically diverse student body gives rise to educational benefits for both minority and non-minority students.” The University of Michigan has spent $4.3 million defending affirmative action.

Media Resources: Associated Press – December 14, 2000

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