Policies of Harvard and University of North Carolina in contention.
On Monday, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a challenge that would bar Harvard University and the University of North Carolina from considering race in undergraduate admissions. The outcome could affect affirmative action policies that are widely used to increase the number of black and Hispanic students on American campuses.
Race-based affirmative action has been a common practice since the 1960s. The University of North Carolina is one of the nation’s leading public universities. In the case against Harvard, petitioners argue the same practices have disproportionately harmed Asian American applicants.
In 2020, an appeals court ruled in favor of Harvard. The school issued a statement saying its “admissions policies are consistent with Supreme Court precedent, and lawfully and appropriately pursue Harvard’s efforts to create a diverse campus that promotes learning and encourages mutual respect and understanding in our community.”
Officials in both schools have denied their processes discriminate. Last month, President Joe Biden’s administration urged the Supreme Court to reject the challenges.
The cases will likely be heard during the session that begins next October and a decision is expected by June 2023.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the justices of the Supreme Court as they hear arguments regarding discrimination and affirmative action.
- For wisdom for the justices as they choose the cases they will hear.
- That federal judges would be discerning in their interpretation of the law as they issue rulings.
Sources: Reuters, Washington Examiner
