Affirmative Action comes to an end in universities across Texas
Texas lawmakers have taken action in universities across the state by relinquishing affirmative action in college admissions. This decision by The Supreme Court is detrimental to universities that would consider race and diversity when accepting applications as well as promoting the institution itself.
In an email sent by Tina Powellson, vice president of student affairs, The Office of the President stated their position on the recent Supreme Court rulings.
“The recent Supreme Court ruling regarding affirmative action predominantly concerns the college admissions process. While some institutions may see changes, UHCL’s admission process has always been based on merit, not considering race or ethnicity, and thus aligns with the new directives.”
“Despite the legislative changes, we pledge to uphold our mission to cultivate a welcoming and respectful environment for all students, staff, and faculty. We are dedicated to navigating these new regulations while honoring the university’s core values.”
The Office of the President was originally emailed on July 11 but did not respond to our request for comment until Aug. 10.
Currently, the only public Texas university affected by this change is the University of Texas at Austin, but this change also affects private universities such as Rice University and Southern Methodist University.
Although the consideration of race itself will no longer be allowed, Chief Justice John Roberts clarified that universities can still consider applicants’ own discussion of race and their personal experiences within their admissions essays. However, military academies were the only group exempt from the ruling due to them possibly having ‘distinct interests’.
While the admissions policy has repeatedly been challenged within the courtroom, its use has slowly declined over time with nine states already prohibiting its practice. Even still this policy has remained under federal protection as civil rights activists and leaders in higher education alike consider it to be vital in improving the access to greater education by historically marginalized minority groups. Along with the recent passing of Texas SB17 eliminating “diversity, equity, and inclusion” offices within college campuses within the state, public concerns for future college applicants have arisen.
“The university has worked diligently to respond to recent legislation while committing to provide a positive and affirming environment for students. In doing so, the Division of Student Affairs has created the Center for Student Advocacy and Community. This department will provide support for students to meet their basic needs and access to campus and community resources. It will also create spaces and opportunities for students to build community and connection. Plans are being finalized and will be implemented for the fall semester” said Powellson.
One of the first states to go away with affirmative action was in Los Angeles California where state locals voted on ‘Proposition 209’ almost 25 years ago in 1996, which also banned public universities from considering race when viewing applications. Zachary Bleemer, an assistant professor of economics at Yale School of Management, did a study on students before and after Proposition 209; concluding what we can expect to see over the years for what’s to become of higher education in Texas.
