The two recent Supreme Court rulings – striking down affirmative action in college admissions and LGBTQ+ rights – represent a significant regression in civil rights. By diminishing the ability of institutions to consider race as a factor in admissions, the ruling disregards the enduring effects of systemic racism and the need for proactive measures to address historical oppression. “Refusing to acknowledge race doesn’t make the exquisite design of racism disappear. It makes it take hold even stronger,” as stated in The Skillman Foundation’s recent blog, “Racial Neutrality Does Not Exist: Why Affirmative Action Actually Benefits ALL of Us.”
Equally disheartening is the Supreme Court’s ruling in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis, which permits certain businesses to deny services to the LGBTQ+ community under the guise of “free speech.” The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) expressed concern in a recent press release, highlighting how this decision hinders progress toward full equality, creates fear and uncertainty for LGBTQ+ individuals who already face discrimination and violence, and weakens democracy.
These rulings, along with SCOTUS overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022 and invalidating a key part of the Voting Rights Act in 2013, not only hinder our progress, but also open the door for initiatives in workplaces to be rolled back, undermining progress achieved over decades. As a result, we at EIC are considering how our work can shift to support leaders and organizations as they navigate this challenging landscape. Our efforts to support Intersectional Race Equity™ in organizations are more critical than ever before.
EIC will continue to collaborate, advocate, and engage with partners whose work directly supports the communities most impacted by these rulings. By explicitly addressing systemic biases and promoting transformational change, we can work towards a future where every individual, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, has equal opportunity to thrive in and contribute to a more equitable society. Only through the aligned efforts of activists and organizers for racial and social justice will the promise of America’s multi-racial democracy be achieved. Onward.
Additional Resources:
Statement on Affirmative Action Ruling | African American Policy Forum
13 Myths about Affirmative Action (PDF) | African American Policy Forum
Federal Civil Rights Complaint Challenges Harvard’s Legacy Admissions | Lawyers for Civil Rights
Press Release: Supreme Court’s Reckless Ruling in 303 Creative Case Undermines Non-Discrimination Laws for LGBTQ+ People and Others | Human Rights Campaign
State of LGBTQ+ Rights Guide | Human Rights Campaign
Resources for Funding LGBTQ Organizing | Funders for LGBTQ Issues
