Two scholarship programs designed for "underrepresented" minorities are facing legal challenges alleging discrimination against White applicants. The nonprofit organization Do No Harm (DNH) has filed lawsuits against both programs, claiming they violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fifth Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
The first lawsuit targets the Society of Military Orthopaedic Surgeons' (SOMOS) E. Anthony Rankin Scholarship Program. This program provides medical students with a four-week experience at a U.S. Military medical center, offering up to $12,000 to cover expenses. DNH argues that the program's focus on "underrepresented medical students" unfairly excludes White applicants. The lawsuit names several defendants, including Director of the Defense Health Agency Telita Crosland and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, in their official capacities.
The second lawsuit challenges the University of Colorado's "Underrepresented Minority Visiting Elective Scholarship" offered by the Radiation Oncology Department. This scholarship provides up to $2,000 in reimbursement for a four-week elective rotation. DNH contends that the scholarship's prioritization of applicants from "historically underrepresented groups in medicine," while not explicitly excluding White applicants, effectively discriminates against them. The scholarship criteria includes, but is not limited to, race and ethnicity, but also factors such as interest in serving underserved populations, leadership, and academic achievement.
DNH is seeking permanent injunctions against both programs, preventing them from considering race in their selection processes. Dr. Jared Ross, Senior Fellow with Do No Harm, emphasized the importance of merit in these fields, arguing that diversity should not come at the expense of qualified individuals. He highlighted the potential conflict between achieving diversity and implementing discriminatory practices in pursuit of "equity."
These lawsuits follow the Supreme Court's 2023 decision rejecting the use of race as a factor in college admissions. The Court ruled against both Harvard University and the University of North Carolina in cases brought by Students for Fair Admissions. The group's lawsuit against Harvard alleged a violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits race-based discrimination in federally funded programs.
The Defense Department, Navy, and Defense Health Agency declined to comment on the pending litigation. The University of Colorado has also been contacted for comment.
