NAACP Celebrates Revised Plan for Student Debt Cancellation to Benefit 30 Million Americans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON - Today, the Biden-Harris Administration unveiled their latest plan to deliver student debt cancellation for those impacted by the nation's growing crisis. The plan, which comes as a result of the recently closed Negotiated Rulemaking process, is expected to provide much-needed relief to 30 million Americans grappling with insurmountable debt.
NAACP Director of Youth & College, Wisdom Cole, who served as sole civil rights negotiator during the Negotiated Rulemaking process, released the following statement in reaction to today's news:
"The NAACP has been proud to represent Black America in fighting for the rightful relief due to our community. Make no mistake, from the polls to the President's desk, young people have ensured that our rallying cries echo throughout the halls of power. It is a proud moment to see our collective, years-long advocacy culminate in millions of Americans being unshackled from the chains of student debt.
As we look toward the implementation of these crucial policy changes, let us be reminded that racial justice cannot exist without financial freedom. It is up to all of us to march forward, finding innovative ways to make education equitable and affordable for all. The NAACP remains committed to ensuring that continued cancellation and economic liberation are secured for our community. The future is bright, and the opportunity for progress is ripe."
The NAACP has been at the forefront of the fight to cancel student debt. From rallying on the steps of the Supreme Court, to pushing for more robust conversations around hardship during the Negotiated Rulemaking process, the Association has been a staunch advocate for the delivery of relief that would take crucial steps toward closing the racial wealth gap. As a result of continued, collective advocacy, the Biden-Harris Administration has canceled more than over $146 billion in student debt for 4 million Americans.
Throughout the Negotiated Rulemaking process more than a dozen NAACP members, and the Association's President & CEO provided public comment, conveying the dire need for the Administration to address the student debt crisis through a racial equity lens.
For more information on NAACP's efforts to make education equitable and accessible for all, visit our website.
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ABOUT NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.