READ BETWEEN THE LINES THAT DIVIDE US
On June 29, 2023, the Supreme Court overturned Affirmative Action programs for Universities and Colleges.
NBC News quoted the written “opinion” of Chief Justice John Roberts, “lack sufficiently focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points, those admissions programs cannot be reconciled with the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause.”
Justice Clarence Thomas was also quoted by CNN saying, “While I am painfully aware of the social and economic ravages which have befallen my race and all who suffer discrimination,” he added, “I hold out enduring hope that this country will live up to its principles so clearly enunciated in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States: that all men are created equal, are equal citizens, and must be treated equally before the law.”
Affirmative Action was put into effect via executive order around the civil rights era in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to ensure that “applicants are treated equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.” Then, President Lydon B Johnson further defined on September 24, 1965, as it relates to employment.
Let’s put this into perspective! Quad Education conducted this study in 2022 for some Ivy League schools, including Harvard University.
Research was also done by College Factual on diversity at North Carolina University.
The math still isn’t adding up! These are the statistics as it relates to enrollment, and the fact that we are still conversing about race not being relevant is delusional.
Affirmative Action ensures that the scales are balanced and individuals are not discriminated against, which in our opinion, is a constitutional right for people of color.
It’s about individuals being considered for acceptance based on their exceptional knowledge and skills individually. Also, creating a diverse learning experience that shapes us into culturally rounded, and open-minded adults. Personal biases and ignorance of officials and/or staff can take precedence when making a final decision should Affirmative Action not be in place.
Remember the Varsity Blues Scandal in 2019, where 53 people, including famous actors, were charged in a college admissions scandal? The Insider recently reported the full list of those who have been sentenced so far. Affirmative Action didn’t hinder those from using their wealth, race, legacy, and power from superseding the process prior to getting caught. How can we ensure that this is not still a factor?
There is an unrealistic expectation that this ruling would only be tied to colleges and universities. We should anticipate a change in other policies, so brace yourself and be certain to vote in EVERY election.
Unfortunate