Cornell University, like many elite institutions, champions diversity as a core value. Yet, its practice of racially segregated housing—through so-called "program houses"—undermines this ideal by reinforcing racial divisions rather than fostering true inclusion.
And while we support the freedom of assembly, we don't support forced association. A troubling report from a whistleblower cites that these residences are often undersubscribed, leading to transfer students being placed in them regardless of their preference, effectively forcing some students into a racialized living environment they did not choose. This practice is not just counterproductive—it is discriminatory, and it should end.
The fundamental flaw in Cornell’s race-based housing system is its contradiction with the principles of integration and equal opportunity. If diversity is truly the goal, then students should be encouraged to live together, not separated based on racial identity. By carving out racially exclusive spaces, Cornell is sending the message that students should primarily define themselves by race rather than by their individual identities, interests, or shared academic pursuits.
Such housing policies also contradict the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement. Decades ago, Americans fought to end racial segregation in schools, housing, and public life. The idea that a university, in the 21st century, would revive segregation in the name of "inclusivity" is deeply ironic. It suggests that diversity is only possible when students are divided, rather than when they are learning, living, and growing together.
Moreover, this policy highlights the broader issue of universities continuing to use race as a primary factor in decision-making—whether in housing, admissions, or student programming. The Supreme Court has already ruled that race-based admissions policies are unconstitutional. Institutions like Cornell should take this as a cue to abandon all policies that categorize and divide students by race, including these race-specific dorms.
A university should be a place where students are exposed to different perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds—not where they are herded into racial enclaves. If Cornell truly values diversity, it should promote integrated housing that brings students of all races and backgrounds together. Instead of dividing students by race, it should foster meaningful interactions and friendships across racial and cultural lines.
It’s time for Cornell to move past outdated, divisive policies and commit to real diversity—one that unites, rather than separates, students. Ending race-based housing would be a crucial step in that direction.
A list of current race or sexuality-based program houses at Cornell:
Akwe:kon – the nation's first university residence established to celebrate American Indian and indigenous cultures and heritage. Explore Akwe:kon community pages.
Latino Living Center (LLC) – celebrating Latino heritage and culture, with regular collaboration with the Latino Studies Program to organize events and discussion series. Explore Latino Living Center (LLC) community pages.
Loving House - An LGBTQ+ living spaced located within Mews Hall that is inclusive to all intersections of identity and embraces honest and frank dialogue to develop engaged community members and leaders. Explore Loving House community pages.
Multicultural Living Learning Unit (McLLU) – a global community of backgrounds and ethnicities, all committed to celebrating difference and promoting acceptance, located within Clara Dickson Hall. Explore McLLU community pages.
Ujamaa Residential College – celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of the African Diaspora. Explore Ujamaa Residential College community pages.
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