EXTRA! EXTRA! Congress Moves To Eliminate Race Preferences!

Apparently even the Congress is now joining the effort to restrict or eliminate race preferences. This just in from the American Civil Rights Institute:

Congress passes amendment ending race preferences in federal contracting

Connerly praises Congressman Walberg’s leadership to pass this historic bill

In a stunning move Congress finally showed that, at least on the issues of fairness and equality, they are in touch with the will of the people. Last night, Congressman Tim Walberg (R-Michigan) introduced an amendment to the department of transportation’s appropriations bill that would eliminate funding for programs that give preference based on race, sex, or ethnicity. The amendment, which passed the house, simply stated:

An amendment to prohibit the use of funds be used by the Department of Transportation to promulgate regulations based on race, ethnicity, or sex.

Ward Connerly, chairman of the American Civil Rights Institute, praised Congressman Walberg for his dedication to equal treatment for all Americans, “Congressman Walberg was one of the few politicians in Michigan who stood on principle during last year’s campaign for the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative,” Connerly continued “and he deserves much praise for his leadership in carrying the will of the people of Michigan to the entire nation.”

This bill should serve as a reminder that when President Kennedy first introduced affirmative action he stated that affirmative action should be taken to guarantee that all people are treated without regard to race. Unfortunately, over time many government institutions have flipped this directive on its head and have been awarding contracts with regard to race. Connerly stated, “There is nothing positive, affirmative, or equal about ‘affirmative action’ programs that give preference to some groups based on race.” Connerly continued, “Notably, when given the chance the American people have voted to end race preferences. Finally congress has listened to the American people and has taken a major step in recognizing the true-promise of the 1964 Civil Rights Act – colorblind government.”

Let’s hope this courage spreads to the Senate.

UPDATE [26 July]

Here are some comments from the sponsor, Rep. Walberg (R, Mich.)

Don’t get your hopes up. A reader who is informed about the inner, arcane workings of the House writes that this amendment was probably passed on a voice vote, which means it will be easier to strip in conference. Moreover, the appropriations bills, he writes, are probably going to be combined into one humongous omnibus bill, which the Dems will use to try to prevent a Bush veto of individual spending bills.

Still, the passage of this amendment, even if it proves to be temporary, is more sign of increasing opposition to racial preferences.

As usual, Roger Clegg is on the case.

Say What?