From Open Doors To Engines Of Inequality
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Weather.
From "Open Doors" to "Engines of Inequality"
Introduction
Over 150 years ago, New Yorkers made a groundbreaking decision: they voted to establish the Free Academy for the Poor Man's Children, a college that eliminated tuition barriers for its first 149 students. This institution has since evolved into the City University of New York (CUNY), now serving 403,000 students across 20 colleges.
The Fight for Free Education
Achieving tuition-free education wasn't easy. Starting in 1805, concerned citizens formed the Free Public Society to advocate for free, nonsectarian schools in Manhattan. Organized labor joined this fight for universal education. Critics argued that deserving students could get scholarships at private colleges, but Townsend Harris, a staunch advocate, pushed back. As president of the Board of Education, he famously stated, "Open the doors to all?"let the children of the rich and poor take their seats together, with no distinction except industry, conduct, and intellect."
The Shift to Inequality
Over time, tuition-free universities like CUNY have transformed into what the nonpartisan Education Trust calls "Engines of Inequality," resembling "gated communities of higher education." The first president of the Free Academy, Horace Webster, aimed to educate "the children of the whole people." Today, public colleges see fewer poor and immigrant students, who face rising tuition and decreasing financial aid.
Erosion of Free Education
Opponents of free education have gradually dismantled these achievements. In 1950, a small $3 Student Activity Fee was introduced. Politicians avoided drastic changes but cleverly eroded the system over time. In 1961, a bill eliminated the "mandate" for free tuition without immediately imposing fees. By 1976, during a financial crisis, tuition became a reality, promised to be offset by aid that has since dwindled.
Impact on Access
The Open Enrollment Program of 1970, aimed at broadening access, became another reason cited for tuition fees. This initiative allowed city high school students with strong academic records to enter four-year colleges. While it faced criticism for its cost, it enriched many lives, especially minority and working-class students. Financial difficulties, however, led to tuition charges that remain even after the crisis ended.
A Personal Perspective
As a child of immigrants, I benefited from attending tuition-free City College. Like many working-class students, I worked through school to cover expenses. My experience highlights the transformative power of free education. Today, even as we raise funds for scholarships, many capable students struggle with the financial burdens of college.
Hope for the Future
Despite current challenges, there is hope. The U.S. is the world's wealthiest country, yet the government covers just a third of public college costs, unlike other nations. Groups like the Professional Staff Congress of CUNY and labor leaders are advocating for free higher education once more. Those who benefited from free education have contributed back many times over in taxes.
Conclusion
It's vital for civic-minded citizens to rally for free universal education for qualified New York City students. Just as Townsend Harris inspired change before, new leaders can restore the education system established by public consensus.
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