On the Media The Harvard Plan: The Universities Are The Enemy
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Dec 20, 2024 Claudine Gay, the former president of Harvard University, and Randall Kennedy, a Harvard Law School professor, engage in a profound discussion about the shifting landscape of diversity in higher education. They explore Gay's leadership amidst controversies and the complexities that come with being Harvard's first Black president. The conversation also highlights the fallout from the Supreme Court's decision on affirmative action and how it impacts future admissions policies. Political pressures on academia and the historical context of diversity initiatives are examined, revealing a turbulent yet vital dialogue.
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Claudette's Escape
- Claudine Gay's mother, Claudette, emigrated from Haiti to the U.S. as a live-in nanny.
- Facing broken promises and exploitation, Claudette secretly saved money and escaped to New York.
Early Diversity at Harvard
- In the early 20th century, Harvard's diversity initiatives aimed to limit Jewish enrollment, not increase inclusion.
- This marked the beginning of using diversity as an admissions tool.
Bakke Case and Diversity
- The Bakke case challenged affirmative action, questioning its constitutionality.
- Archibald Cox argued for Harvard's diversity-based admissions, influencing Justice Powell's decision.