In what arguably is her most important opinion, upholding the importance of diversity in higher education, she offered an observation that applies throughout a diverse democracy.
Perhaps schools should get credit for nurturing the kind of tolerant citizens that our diverse democracy needs.
Throughout his career, he was always committed to integration because of his larger vision for what a diverse democracy ought to be.
Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, the United States Army chief of staff, likes to take note of how military men and women from a diverse democracy set a standard, by their actions, in nations with no history of tolerance or democracy.
It has always been odd for the United States not to have a closer relationship with the world's most populous and diverse democracy, and the president's visit can move toward that goal.
Despite worries about torture, corruption and deep social problems, US diplomats still appear impressed by India's "vibrant and diverse" democracy, seeing the country as a natural ally in the region and viewing Manmohan Singh, the 77-year-old economist and prime minister, as a natural friend.
"Finally, I think it's important to recognize, especially this season, that higher education, education in general, are one of the bulwarks of a functioning civil society and our diverse democracy".
In a diverse democracy, politics must be based on principles.
There is also the little matter of freedom of association, which a diverse democracy must protect.
India might be a cacophonous country but it functions as the largest, most diverse democracy in the world.
