Peggy (Dr. Margaret) Sands Orchowski Ph.D. has been the credentialed Congressional Correspondent for the Hispanic Outlook on Higher Education magazine in Washington DC since 2006. Her new book “The Law That Changed the Face of America: the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965” was published by Rowman & Littlefield in September in time for the 50th anniversary of its signing.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles at top universities have been triggered by leaders' controversial responses to campus antisemitism. EI's impact on decision-making is questioned, prompting a reevaluation of its role amid accusations and resignations. Meanwhile, the American Dream is explored, with immigrants expressing stronger belief in upward mobility and success through hard work, despite challenges and disparities in opportunities.
It is anticipated that the year 2024 will bring disconcerting developments, particularly in Congress, focusing on the November presidential election, the influence of the monolithic Latino Vote, student loans, hate speech on campuses, and immigration decisions affecting Dreamers. The exclusion of Dreamers from immigration measures and the considerations for immigration reform in 2024 will likely play a significant role in the political landscape of the upcoming year.
The Biden administration’s efforts with regard to student loan forgiveness face challenges due to issues like fraud management, leading to disapproval by the Supreme Court. Additionally, a significant rise in international students, especially from China and India, raises concerns about the impact on U.S. colleges and students, including financial reliance and potential issues related to diversity, intellectual property, and immigration.
Hispanic voters in the United States are a growing and diverse group, impacting politics with varying concerns. At the same time, conflicts surrounding free speech on college campuses are discussed, as well as how the Government shutdowns are taking place and being perceived.
The end of affirmative action prompts focus on legacy admissions at selective colleges. Proposed legislation seeks to eliminate such preferences, paralleling calls for equitable education funding.
The 2023 "Road to Majority" conference, organized by the Faith and Freedom Coalition, focused on conservative Republicans and their outreach to Hispanic voters. The conference featured GOP presidential candidates, discussed various issues like abortion and Hispanic-related topics, and indicated support for a federal law on limited abortion rights.
Affirmative action in college admissions may face potential demise due to weaknesses in the current law. Also, there is a diversity of views on immigration within the Hispanic community.
College students are changing their focus when choosing higher education institutions. While colleges offer upgraded amenities, dorms, gyms and leisure spaces as a plus, students are now basing their choices on political beliefs. This article also discusses the need to encourage international education.
Stanford Law student discusses the silencing of moderate students by far-left students. Also, A Pew Research Center survey unveiled that there is a decline of Hispanics that identify as Catholic and many are becoming more diverse in their political and religious beliefs.
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx aims at reauthorizing the Higher Education Act of 1965 while she opposes the College Transparency Act. Some consider that the concept and term WOKE, which the black community originally used in the 40s, is now divisive. The term Latinx is also under discussion and its use was banned in Arkansas while there is a similar proposal in Connecticut.
The new Congress is focused on increasing oversight in the education sector since US community colleges have been losing students in the last years. Meanwhile, the question of who should be allowed to vote in local elections, particularly in college towns, is being considered.
The US Conference of Mayors, held between January 17 and 20, addressed challenging issues for Hispanics/Latinos such as the Latino vote, and assistance for migrants.
