The Future of Affirmative Action: From 'Race Neutral' to Supreme Court Rulings

The Supreme Court's recent decision to remove affirmative action from college admissions programs has set a new "race-neutral" standard for considering applicants. While the court did not outlaw the goal of achieving diversity, the term "race neutral" is being used to promote alternative policies that aim to achieve racial harmony and equality without the burdens and strife generated by affirmative action. However, critics argue that race-neutral efforts may lead to a decline in the representation of Black and Latino students at top-level universities. California and Michigan, where affirmative action programs were ended years ago, have seen underrepresentation and racial isolation persist despite implementing race-neutral measures. The decision could widen the mismatch between a diversifying youth population and a predominantly white student body in elite colleges and universities, potentially exacerbating social tension.