It is not as a father speaking to sons that I speak to you today. It is as a companion, a fellow alumnus, speaking to his classmates. Sitting together on the same school bench, let us together listen to the Lord, the Teacher of all mankind. — Pedro Arrupe, S.J.
The recent majority opinion in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard has sparked significant controversy and debate regarding diversity in college admissions. It is important to recognize that diversity is not only essential for the educational environment, it is also supported by and aligned with Catholic social teaching and Jesuit values.
In his seminal 1973 address “Men (and Women) for Others,” then Superior General of the Society of Jesus Pedro Arrupe emphasized the importance of embracing what we would call diversity, equity, and inclusion, as a means to build a just and compassionate world. He advocated for the formation of individuals who would engage in the service of others, fostering an environment of inclusivity and solidarity. Arrupe believed that diversity enriches the educational experience, providing students with opportunities to learn from different perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds. By engaging with a diverse community, students are better equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected and complex world.
Arrupe’s ideas, of course, were not a deviation from, but rather an affirmation of Catholic social teaching, rooted in the principles of justice and solidarity and the Gospel; both value and support the idea of diversity as a fundamental aspect of human dignity and community.
The Catholic Church acknowledges that each person is uniquely created in the image of God, with inherent worth and value. Embracing diversity acknowledges this inherent dignity and recognizes that every individual, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background, contributes to the richness of the community. Moreover, Catholic social teaching highlights the responsibility to create just structures and promote the common good, which includes ensuring equal opportunities for all members of society.
Jesuit education is grounded in the principles of cura personalis (care for the whole person) and magis (the pursuit of excellence and continuous improvement). In the pursuit of magis, Jesuit institutions must recognize the importance of diversity in creating a vibrant and transformative educational environment. By welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they can foster an inclusive community that embraces the principles of equity, justice, and dialogue. This commitment to diversity aligns with the Ignatian pedagogical paradigm, which encourages critical thinking, discernment, and engagement with the world.
In light of the Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard decision, Jesuit institutions, and Catholic institutions more broadly, should seize the opportunity to reimagine their diversity policies to ensure the continued cultivation of diverse classes of students consistent with its mission. This may involve reassessing admission criteria to holistically evaluate applicants, considering factors beyond standardized test scores. By adopting a comprehensive approach that accounts for students’ unique experiences, achievements, and contributions, they can continue to create diverse and inclusive learning communities.
No comments:
Post a Comment