In the case of Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard (2023), the Supreme Court ruling effectively put an end to race-based affirmative action in college admissions. This decision invalidated the use of affirmative action in college admission policies, which had been designed to promote equal opportunity and address historical disadvantages faced by certain groups in society. The primary aim of affirmative action was to create a more inclusive and diverse society by ensuring fair access to education and employment opportunities for individuals from underrepresented communities.
The Supreme Court’s decision sparked disappointment, anger and hurt within the Black community, as it was seen as a regression in history and a step backward in the fight for equality. With discussions on equality remaining at the forefront of politics, laws and everyday life, many people fear that this ruling may be just the beginning of a much larger issue.
Many years ago, affirmative action was banned at universities in California and Michigan. Despite both universities claiming to strive for fair admissions, the demographics of their student populations tell a different tale. In the University of Michigan’s most recent data report, it was revealed that only 4 percent of their students are African American. These imbalanced figures raise concerns about the potential future of enrollment across the nation, with many fearing similar disparities.
While the impact of affirmative action is often associated with university campuses, its influence extends far beyond them. One aspect often overlooked is the effect of affirmative action on workplace diversity and the opportunities it creates for underrepresented groups.
Supreme Court Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson spoke about this topic, using the example of Black doctors to illustrate the widespread effects of losing affirmative action. She emphasized that a diverse workforce is beneficial for students and society as a whole. Justice Jackson highlighted the importance of producing highly educated professionals of color, citing research that demonstrates how Black physicians are more likely to accurately assess Black patients’ pain tolerance and provide appropriate treatment. In the case of high-risk Black newborns, having a Black physician more than doubles the likelihood of the baby surviving.
The consequences of a lack of diversity in the professional workforce are far-reaching and impact critical institutions beyond hospitals, such as courts, schools and other major sectors. In the legal system, for instance, a homogenous judiciary may struggle to understand and address the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals from marginalized communities, potentially leading to unequal access to justice. Similarly, a lack of diversity among educators in schools may hinder cultural competence and the ability to meet the needs of students from diverse backgrounds.
Affirmative action has played a vital role in addressing historical inequalities and promoting social justice. By eliminating these policies, there is a risk of reversing the progress made in diversifying the workforce. The removal of affirmative action may reinforce existing biases and discrimination, making it more challenging for underrepresented individuals to overcome barriers and access equal opportunities.
The absence of diversity in major institutions and functions of American life can perpetuate a cycle of inequality and hinder social progress. When individuals from underrepresented groups are not adequately represented in positions of power and influence, it becomes more difficult to address systemic issues and promote equal opportunities for all. Diversity brings different perspectives, experiences and ideas to the table, fostering innovation, creativity and more comprehensive decision-making processes.
Moving forward, it is crucial for organizations to establish clear guidelines and policies regarding affirmative action to ensure transparency in hiring and promotion processes. Despite facing adversity and unfair changes, our ability to focus on the future and find ways to prevail will help determine our success and ability to thrive.
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