Social Change
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Affirmative Action
In 2023, amongst significant backlash, the Supreme Court ruled against Affirmative Action in a suit brought against Harvard and the University of North Carolina by Students For Fair Admissions. The case hinged on “unfair” admissions practices - specifically, race based admissions practices. The final ruling by the Supreme Court determined that race could no longer be considered when determining admissions.
Affirmative Action has shaped admissions practices in higher education since the 1970’s; however, it is largely misunderstood. While race can be used when determining admissions decisions, colleges and universities are forbidden from reserving seats for minority students. Although it is the most controversial factor, race is not the only factor that colleges use in determining a student’s acceptance or denial. A student’s geographic location, whether they are from a rural area, and even their legacy status are also used to determine their acceptance. Sex and disability are also factors in college or university admissions.
Affirmative Action is simply one way to ensure equitable admissions practices for groups who have experienced systemic discrimination. In doing so, create a diverse community on college and university campuses. Unfortunately, the loss of Affirmative Action has come at a time where diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts on campuses are already suffering. Beyond criticism of critical race theory, there are states that are taking direct action against these efforts. Texas governor Gregg Abbott signed a law last year banning DEI initiatives - a move that cost 100’s of Texas citizens their jobs as colleges and universities shut down DEI offices. South Carolina, too, is dismantling campus DEI initiatives by banning their use in admissions and hiring practices. There will be more to follow.
Ultimately, we are facing a severe drop in minority enrollments across colleges and universities. We are telling minority students that they are not valued and, in some cases, they are likely not safe on our campuses. We are actively destroying their communities on campuses, so they are facing isolation if they do choose to enroll. We must do better.
Affirmative Action has shaped admissions practices in higher education since the 1970’s; however, it is largely misunderstood. While race can be used when determining admissions decisions, colleges and universities are forbidden from reserving seats for minority students. Although it is the most controversial factor, race is not the only factor that colleges use in determining a student’s acceptance or denial. A student’s geographic location, whether they are from a rural area, and even their legacy status are also used to determine their acceptance. Sex and disability are also factors in college or university admissions.
Affirmative Action is simply one way to ensure equitable admissions practices for groups who have experienced systemic discrimination. In doing so, create a diverse community on college and university campuses. Unfortunately, the loss of Affirmative Action has come at a time where diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts on campuses are already suffering. Beyond criticism of critical race theory, there are states that are taking direct action against these efforts. Texas governor Gregg Abbott signed a law last year banning DEI initiatives - a move that cost 100’s of Texas citizens their jobs as colleges and universities shut down DEI offices. South Carolina, too, is dismantling campus DEI initiatives by banning their use in admissions and hiring practices. There will be more to follow.
Ultimately, we are facing a severe drop in minority enrollments across colleges and universities. We are telling minority students that they are not valued and, in some cases, they are likely not safe on our campuses. We are actively destroying their communities on campuses, so they are facing isolation if they do choose to enroll. We must do better.
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