Harvard University recently announced that it may still consider race in its admissions process, despite the Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action in higher education. The university’s statement explains that the court’s decision allows schools to take into account an applicant’s racial background, along with other factors, as long as the prospective student explains how it has impacted their life.
In a 6-3 decision on Thursday, the Supreme Court’s conservative majority declared the long-standing practice of affirmative action unconstitutional. Chief Justice John Roberts stated that schools had wrongly prioritized an individual’s identity based on their skin color rather than their accomplishments and experiences.
While Harvard intends to comply with the court’s ruling, the university emphasized that the decision still permits them to consider race, among other factors. As Roberts wrote, “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise.”
In its statement, Harvard argued that a diverse student body contributes to a superior learning environment. The university believes that diversity and difference are essential to academic excellence, as they foster debate, disagreement, and progress.
However, Harvard may encounter legal challenges, as The New York Times pointed out. While Roberts allowed for race to be discussed during the admissions process, he also stated that universities cannot establish an unlawful regime through application essays or other means.
Interestingly, Harvard’s statement did not address its continued reliance on legacy admissions. This practice, which gives preferential treatment to the children of Harvard alumni, has been criticized as perpetuating privilege for the wealthy and white. In 2021, The Harvard Crimson, a student-run publication, noted that the admission rate for all applicants between 2014 and 2019 was only 6 percent, but it was 33 percent for legacy applicants.
Overall, Harvard University’s announcement highlights its commitment to considering race in the admissions process. While the Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action may impose limitations, the university believes that a diverse student body is crucial for academic excellence. However, potential legal challenges and the issue of legacy admissions may complicate Harvard’s approach to achieving diversity in its student population.
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