Former first lady Michelle Obama said her “heart breaks for any young person out there who’s wondering what their future holds” following the Supreme Court ruling striking down the use of affirmative action in college admissions.
“It wasn’t perfect, but there’s no doubt that it helped offer new ladders of opportunity for those who, throughout our history, have too often been denied a chance to show how fast they can climb.”
Former President Barack Obama said affirmative action, while not perfect, “allowed generations of students like Michelle and me to prove we belonged.
In closing, the Obamas urged support for eight organizations that provide scholarships and other support to students of diverse backgrounds, including Hope Chicago, the organization led by former Chicago Public Schools chief Janice Jackson, which provides assistance to students seeking post-secondary education.