It works like this: The Supreme Court takes their docket for an entire session. After the session is over, the justices take their vacations and then their decisions are announced. Clarence Thomas, a Republican billionaire donor, is likely sitting on his yacht now and pointing at Nazi memorabilia. Today, SCOTUS released their decision on two cases involving affirmative actions in college admissions. The Supreme Court has overturned affirmative action. Congratulations to American colleges and Universities, you can admit thousands of Beckys who have bad grades while marginalizing Black and Brown kids who wish to become doctors and scientists. Clarence Thomas - a shining example of affirmative action employment - wrote the majority opinion that dismantled affirmative action at colleges.

The Supreme Court effectively abolished affirmative action on Thursday, a policy that allowed universities to take into account a student's race in addition to factors like academic merit, extracurricular activities, and athletics. The 6-3 decision came after the court heard arguments regarding two challenges to affirmative actions policies at Harvard University and University of North Carolina.

The court ruled that race-conscious admissions are in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution: "This Court has acknowledged a tradition of giving deference to an institution's academic decision,' but it made clear that this deference must be 'within constitutionally defined limits.'"

Clarence Thomas, in a concurring view, argued that affirmative action has a pernicious impact on race relations, and is far from improving them. Recent history shows a disturbing trend: affirmative action policies seem to have extended the need for racial bias.

In a dissenting opinion, Justice Sonia Sotomayor quoted data that showed that "racially integrated schools improved cross-racial awareness, 'broke down racial stereotyping', and ensured that students obtained 'the necessary skills in today's global marketplace. . . Through exposure to diverse people, cultures and ideas.

Sotomayor said that inclusive institutions which are "visibly open" to qualified and talented individuals from all races and ethnicities instill confidence in their 'legitimacy and integrity' as well as the diversity of the graduates they produce.

Affirmative action has been used for years to remedy historic discrimination and to create more diverse student population. Proponents argue affirmative actions helps increase opportunities for underrepresented groups including people of colour. Opponents claim that affirmative action unfairly denies white people the same opportunities, and is racial bias.

[From People]

Imagine saying this out loud: "Affirmative Action Policies Appear to Have Prolonged the Asserted Need for Racial Discrimination." Clarence Thomas. Mr. Why are you being racist to Becky with the bad grades??? Mr. Why Are You Being Racist To Becky With The Bad Grades???

Neal Katyal June 29, 2023

Avalon Red Backgrid and Instar provided the photos.