Letter to the Regents regarding the Resolution Concerning
Future Admissions, Employment and Contracting Policies

by Regent Ward Connerly

For several weeks, Regent Judy Hopkinson and I have been speaking to each other in an effort to find an acceptable resolution of the controversies swirling around SP-1 and SP-2. Although each of us may have different perspectives about this matter, we all share a common desire to do what is best for the University and for the people of California.

For my part, I have always been guided by the perspective that I should first be true to my convictions, but, in doing so, always be respectful of the positions of others--and try to accommodate them in a manner that is consistent with my beliefs.

It is no secret that Regent Bill Bagley and I have serious differences on the issue at hand. Those differences are of a long-standing nature. It may come as a surprise to him to learn, however, that I share his desire to remove the University of California from the debate about race-based affirmative action. The people of California have resolved this issue and the book must be closed on this debate.

The resolution that we will be considering, RE-28, is one that will not please everyone. But, perhaps, that is the beauty of it. For many, it would be preferable to pound SP-1 into oblivion. For others, it would be desirable to impose a similar fate on the opponents of SP-1. Neither position is likely to prevail in a "knock down, drag out" battle on May 16. And, if either camp secured its position by a sharply divided vote, the University of California and our Board would bear the consequences of such an outcome.

The virtue of RE-28 is that it is reasonable and fair to all perspectives, consistent with the Constitution of California, responsive to the negative perceptions about the effects of SP-1, and leaves for another day those issues that are more appropriately matters to be addressed in a different venue.

It is my prayer that all of us can come together to approve a compromise resolution that might not please everyone, but eliminates an issue that needlessly consumes so much of our time. For this to be a success, we should all put our differences aside and work together in a spirit of collegiality. I pledge to do my part.

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