On Tuesday, the United States Supreme Court announced that it will hear a case on affirmative action in higher education. This Supreme Court decision could eliminate the use of diversity as a justification for any consideration of race in admissions decisions. A decision like this could have enormous implications for Cornell and represent a step backward for the University. In the face of this decision, Cornell should cement its commitment to using broad definitions of diversity, which may include race, and stand up for its policies.

Sasha Mack '13 argues for the neccesity of affirmative action, and for equal opportunity for all people.

Jon Miller '15 argues that diversity initiatives and affirmative action unfairly benefit minority students based on history and not present circumstances.

Florencia Ulloa '11 expounds upon the virtues of affirmative action.

Sun columnist Judah Bellin '12 takes on affirmative action and the current push to make the system class-based.

“‘I told them I’ve thought about [my sexuality] and I’m 100 percent OK with my sexuality. … I wanted the opportunity to show them I love god and I’m gay and it’s OK.”

— Chris Donohoe ’09, quoted in “Alleged Homophobia Causes Outcry,” News, The Sun, April 23

When the pastors of Chi Alpha asked Chris Donohue ’09 — a proud homosexual — to abdicate his leadership role, he protested their rejection of his nuanced theology. At a silent vigil held outside Chi Alpha’s Friday night meeting last semester, Donohoe appealed to the universal love and acceptance preached by Jesus as reason to affirm his recent reconciliation between his faith and sexual identity.