The US Supreme Court has struck down race-based college admissions in a 6-3 decision. The case, Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, was brought by a group of Asian American students who argued that Harvard’s admissions process discriminated against them on the basis of race. The Supreme Court agreed, ruling that Harvard’s use of race as a factor in admissions was not narrowly tailored to achieve a compelling government interest.
The decision is a major setback for affirmative action, which has been used by colleges and universities for decades to increase diversity on their campuses. It is also likely to have a significant impact on admissions at elite colleges, which are already facing pressure to enroll more students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Supreme Court’s decision is likely to be met with mixed reactions. Supporters of affirmative action argue that it is a necessary tool to address the legacy of racial discrimination in the United States. They also argue that it helps to create more diverse and inclusive college campuses, which are essential for preparing students for the 21st century workforce.
Opponents of affirmative action argue that it is unfair to use race as a factor in admissions, and that it gives an unfair advantage to minority applicants. They also argue that it can lead to reverse discrimination, in which qualified white and Asian American applicants are denied admission to colleges in favor of less qualified minority applicants.
The Supreme Court’s decision is likely to spark a new round of debate about affirmative action in the United States. It is also likely to lead to new legal challenges to affirmative action policies at colleges and universities.