The Supreme Court's Rejection of Affirmative Action: An Unsettling Blow to Educational Diversity

In a recent Inside Higher Ed article titled "What the Supreme Court Rejection of Affirmative Action Means," Scott Jaschik explores the ramifications of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on admissions programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The article delves into the Court's ruling, dissenting opinions, and reactions from college leaders, highlighting the implications for diversity in higher education.

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The Court's Rationale

Jaschik discusses Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.'s opinion, which argues that the admissions programs in question violate the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. Roberts criticizes these programs for lacking measurable objectives, employing race in a negative manner, perpetuating racial stereotyping, and lacking meaningful endpoints. The Court's ruling marks a departure from previous allowances of race-conscious admissions policies.

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Dissenting Opinions

Jaschik highlights Justice Sonia Sotomayor's strong dissent, where she expresses concern about the Court's decision. Sotomayor argues that the ruling rolls back progress and perpetuates racial inequality, undermining the constitutional guarantee of equal protection. The article emphasizes the dissent's assertion that race continues to matter in a society marked by segregation.

Implications for Higher Education

The article notes that the Court's decision is expected to have a significant impact on colleges and universities nationwide. It mentions the exemption of military academies from the ruling but criticizes the Court for not addressing the issue of race-based admissions in that context.

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Responses from Institutions and Leaders

Jaschik highlights the disappointment expressed by college leaders and associations regarding the Supreme Court's decision. The article includes statements from Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz of UNC Chapel Hill, who promises to comply with the law, and a group of Harvard administrators, emphasizing the importance of diversity and opportunity.

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Voices from the Academic Community

The article showcases various perspectives within the academic community, including President Suzanne Rivera of Macalester College, who pledges to keep the institution's doors open to all. President David Harris of Union College expresses disappointment with the decision while noting the uncertainty surrounding the practical implementation of the allowance for discussing race or experiences with racism.

Jaschik's article sheds light on the implications of the Supreme Court's rejection of affirmative action in admissions decisions. It emphasizes the setback for diversity in higher education and the challenges institutions face in promoting equal opportunity. The article calls for innovative approaches and renewed efforts to create inclusive environments while acknowledging the ongoing struggle for educational equality. Ultimately, it highlights the need for continued activism, policy advocacy, and institutional commitment to foster progress and equal opportunity for all in higher education.

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Reference: Jaschik, S. (2023, July 5). What the Supreme Court Rejection of Affirmative Action Means. Inside Higher Ed. Retrieved from https://www.insidehighered.com/news/admissions/2023/06/29/supreme-court-rules-against-affirmative-action?utm_source=Inside+Higher+Ed&utm_campaign=3584be5e0d-AdmissionsInsider_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_1fcbc04421-3584be5e0d-199026413&mc_cid=3584be5e0d&mc_eid=70361c78cf

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