To our community,
We are disheartened by the Supreme Court ruling that race-based college admissions programs are unconstitutional. “At highly selective liberal arts colleges, officials expect that the number of Black students could return to levels not seen since the 1960s.” (The New York Times) And if you follow them into the workforce, for the subsequent 15-20 years, they will earn about 5% lower wages than they would have earned if they had access to more universities under affirmative action.” (NPR)
We recognize the harm that decisions like this cause for communities like ours here at Marwen. Many generations have been systematically deprived of educational and career opportunities. I often recall being advised as a young adult not to disclose my race or share my name on an application in order to be seen by my work and not my identity.
At the core of Marwen’s work is access. Approximately 80% of the young people we support identify as BIPOC and low-income, and many are first-generation. The world continues to erect barriers, but Marwen remains committed to the development of young people as they navigate pathways to a thriving adulthood.
While decisions like this make our days more challenging, our work does not stop. We are dedicated to providing more opportunities for young people through our courses, inclusive community, academic and career counseling, and youth employment opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting us as we continue this work.
Akilah S. Halley
Executive Director
If you would like to make a greater impact in this continued fight for equity, please consider making a donation at www.marwen.org/donate.
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