Though this topic strays from the focus of this blog, it is a topic I am particularly passionate about, and have taken time, out of the last few days to investigate and see the reasoning behind the decision making of the 6 justices that decided that affirmative action, the way we know it, was unconstitutional, and would be prohibited.
Let me give you a quick rundown of what happened: In a significant win for conservative advocates, the Supreme Court made a ruling on Thursday that invalidated affirmative action initiatives at both the University of North Carolina and Harvard. This decision effectively puts an end to the deliberate inclusion of race as a determining factor in the college admissions process. Conservative leaders like Donald Trump saying that it was”a great day for America.” Liberals, however, condemned the ruling, saying affirmative action is a key tool for remedying historic race discrimination.
In a pivotal development, the Supreme Court effectively reversed its 2003 decision in Grutter v. Bollinger, where it had previously determined that race could be taken into account as a consideration in the college admissions process.
Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic justice, wrote that the court “stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress.” Doesn’t this case sound familiar?
As we examine the pursuit of a fairer and more equitable society, it is disheartening to observe that our current efforts seem to be regressing and erasing the hard-earned progress achieved over the past half-century. Instead of building upon the advancements we fought for, we find ourselves taking steps backward, jeopardizing the strides made towards a more just society.
Over the past 50 years, there have been substantial movements and initiatives aimed at rectifying systemic injustices and fostering greater equality. Advocates, activists, and marginalized communities have tirelessly worked to dismantle discriminatory practices and institutions. Yet, in the present moment, it appears that some of these accomplishments are being undermined, overshadowed, or even erased.
Efforts to create a fairer society require a continuous commitment to progress. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that progress is not always linear, and setbacks can occur. This is a clear case of this happening.
Affirmative action was, and still remains, a huge step in the process of making life firer every single day, and as Michelle Obama adds:
“It wasn’t perfect, but there’s no doubt that it helped offer new ladders of opportunities for those who, throughout our history, have too often been denied a chance to show how fast they can climb”
While advocates of the ruling celebrate it as a victory for conservative principles, critics argue that it undermines a vital tool for addressing historic racial discrimination. The case serves as a stark reminder that progress towards a fairer society is not always linear and setbacks can occur.
As we navigate these challenges, it is crucial to maintain a steadfast commitment to advancing equality and justice for all. It requires continued vigilance, empathy, and collective action to overcome obstacles and ensure that the gains of the past are not lost. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and advocating for inclusive policies, we can strive to create a society where opportunities are truly accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Ultimately, the journey towards a fairer and more equal society demands our ongoing dedication and willingness to confront and address the systemic biases that persist. By learning from setbacks and renewing our commitment to progress, we can work towards building a future where equal opportunities are not only a vision but a tangible reality for all.
Citations
Hudspeth Blackburn, Piper. “What the Supreme Court’s Ruling on Affirmative Action Does and Does Not Do.” CNN, 29 June 2023, http://www.cnn.com/2023/06/29/politics/what-affirmative-action-ruling-does-scotus/index.html.
“Supreme Court Rejects Affirmative Action in College Admissions.” NBC News, 29 June 2023, http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-strikes-affirmative-action-programs-harvard-unc-rcna66770.
Languaging - Blog 
Leave a comment