The affirmative action verdict: How it is reshaping campus DEI Programs in the US

On June 29, 2023, the U.S. The Supreme Court issued a landmark decision where it ruled against the affirmative action policies in college admissions. The Apex Court found that considering race in admissions violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This decision, which passed with a 6-3 vote, marks a significant shift in how institutions of higher education approach diversity and inclusion. Moreover it has/had a significant impact on the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education which has prompted educational institutions to explore alternative ways to achieve diverse student bodies without race-based criteria.

Decline in Black Student Enrollment and Its Impact on Campus Diversity

Following the SC ruling on affirmative action, according to the ABC News, Yale University’s class of 2028 showed minimal change in racial demographics compared to the class of 2027, with African American and Native American percentages remaining steady. The Hispanic/Latino and international populations saw slight changes, while the Asian American population dropped by 6%, and the white population increased by 4%. At Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the Black and Hispanic/Latino populations significantly dropped, while the Asian American population grew by 7%. Princeton experienced a slight dip in its Asian and international populations, with a 1% drop in Hispanic/Latino students. The class of 2028 at Princeton is 31.3% white, with 7.7% of racial identities unknown.
A recent analysis by The Chronicle of Higher Education found that Black student enrollment at selective colleges has sharply decreased, with some schools reporting declines of over 20%. This trend closely mirrors the experiences of California and Michigan, where affirmative action bans caused major reductions in minority enrollments at top universities.

The impact of these declines extends beyond the numbers. Fewer Black students on campus not only affect campus culture but also reduce the diversity of perspectives essential for a comprehensive educational experience. In response, universities are exploring alternative admissions strategies that emphasize socio-economic background and personal achievements rather than race.

Scrutiny of DEI Programs and the Rise of Anti-DEI Legislation

The Supreme Court’s decision has also triggered widespread scrutiny and reevaluation of DEI initiatives across higher education institutions. Many universities have begun scaling back or eliminating programs designed to promote diversity and inclusion due to fears of legal repercussions or funding cuts. According to the data shared by The Chronicle of Higher Education, a US weekly, 86 anti-DEL bills have been introduced across various states, out of which 14 have already been enacted into law, 14 have final legislative approval, while 54 have been tabled or failed to pass,. which has led to a significant reduction in support for DEI programs. The bills aim to reduce or eliminate existing DEI programs at higher education institutions to align with the Court’s ruling prohibiting race-based considerations in hiring and admissions. They also seek to ban mandatory DEI training and prohibit diversity statements in hiring and admissions processes.

As per the U.S. media reports, the new bills aim to reduce or eliminate DEI programs in higher education, aligning with the Court’s ruling against race-based considerations in hiring and admissions. States like Florida and Texas have passed laws banning DEI funding, mandatory training, and diversity statements, forcing institutions to dismantle such initiatives. While proponents argue these changes promote merit-based admissions, critics believe they will harm campus inclusivity for underrepresented groups. This trend raises concerns about the future of support systems for underrepresented students who rely on these programs for mentorship, academic assistance, and community building.

Challenges and Future of Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education

The 2023 Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action has profoundly affected underrepresented communities in higher education. With a significant drop in Black student enrollment at elite institutions, such as Harvard and the University of North Carolina, the diversity of perspectives essential for a well-rounded educational experience is at risk. Furthermore, the ruling has prompted over 85 anti-DEI bills across various states, leading to cuts in funding and support for initiatives designed to assist marginalized students. Despite these challenges, as per information, some institutions are actively seeking innovative ways to support DEI efforts, focusing on socio-economic factors and community partnerships to ensure that underrepresented students continue to receive mentorship and academic assistance. As these changes unfold, the commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment remains crucial for the future of higher education.