A blow to diversity: Supreme Court restricts Affirmative Action in college admissions

In a major shift for American higher education, the Supreme Court on Thursday restricted the use of affirmative action in college admissions. This overturns decades of precedent that allowed race to be considered in the effort to diversify college campuses.

The court’s decision was passed in a 6-3 ruling against affirmative action policies at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chief Justice John Roberts led the conservative majority’s opinion, drawing criticism from liberal members of the court. In his view, admissions decisions should focus on “challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned” rather than the color of an applicant’s skin.

President Biden expressed strong disagreement with the court’s decision, arguing that it deviates from established norms. “This is not a normal court,” he stated, adding that adversity faced by students should be considered during the admissions process. “I’ve always believed that one of the greatest strengths of America … is our diversity,” Biden added.

Biden took the opportunity to highlight a misconception that affirmative action grants admission to unqualified students. The President clarified that all admitted students meet admission standards, with race only coming into play once those standards have been met.

Despite the ruling, Biden said he would direct the Department of Education to analyze practices that help build a diverse student body. His remarks implied a critique of “legacy admissions,” suggesting that such practices serve to expand privilege rather than promote opportunity.

Former President Barack Obama echoed these sentiments in a statement, saying: “Like any policy, affirmative action wasn’t perfect. But it allowed generations of students like Michelle and me to prove we belonged. Now it’s up to all of us to give young people the opportunities they deserve  − and help…