Statement from Mary Tamer, Executive Director of Democrats for Education Reform Massachusetts, on Legislation Banning the Practice of Legacy Admissions
February 7, 2024: The Joint Committee on Higher Education took a historic step today by voting legislation out of committee that would eliminate the use of legacy preferences in all higher education institutions, both public and private, in the Commonwealth. This bold step would make Massachusetts the first state in the nation to ban this unfair admissions practice in both public and private institutions, leveling the playing field for all students seeking a quality education.
The practice of legacy admissions has perpetuated inequalities in higher education for too long. It serves as a barrier to equity and opportunity, granting an unearned advantage to children of alumni – often from wealthy or well-connected families – at the expense of deserving students from diverse backgrounds.
This legislation serves as a crucial turning point, a chance for Massachusetts once again to make education history by removing a practice created solely to exclude certain students from elite institutions. By eliminating legacy preferences, we can send a message that Massachusetts values fairness and equity, not family privilege.
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Contact: Dom Slowey | 781-710-0014 | dslowey@sloweymcmanus.com