If implemented, "Adams" could go a long way toward erasing the color line in higher education. Without this litigation and the resultant enforcement, the racial dualism of segregated systems of higher education in southern and border states would continue. (Author/IRT)

Background information and policy issues regarding programs for the support of the historically black colleges are presented. The unique characteristics, qualities, and contributions of these black institutions are reviewed, and the implications of the Adams v. Califano case are discussed. Title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965 established…