Yesterday, the United States Supreme Court made a significant departure from established precedent by ruling to eliminate affirmative action, barring colleges and universities from considering race as a criterion for determining admission eligibility. This decision seriously threatens educational institutions' ability in the United States to cultivate vibrant and inclusive environments, undermining their efforts to foster diversity and equity among their student populations. These environments have been instrumental in equipping students with the skills to lead and engage in mutual learning. The potential consequences of such a decision are profound and far-reaching, impacting not only the individuals who have historically faced discrimination but also the integrity of our educational system as a whole.

“By overlooking the experiences and unique perspectives of Black communities, we risk failing to prepare students for the diverse world they will enter upon graduation. Our society benefits immensely from the cross-pollination of ideas and experiences that arise from a diverse student population, and eliminating affirmative action undermines these invaluable learning opportunities.” – Guylaine Saint Juste, President and CEO, NABA Inc.

NABA Inc. actively works towards dismantling systemic barriers, ensuring equal opportunities for all, and building a future where economic prosperity, DEI, education, and leadership diversity are realized by every individual, regardless of their background. Removing affirmative action perpetuates existing disparities and hinders progress toward achieving racial equality. The consideration of race in college admissions is a critical tool that institutions use to address historical disparities and ensure that underrepresented communities have access to higher education. It allows colleges and universities to consider the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals from marginalized backgrounds, enabling a more holistic assessment of applicants' qualifications and potential for success. NABA's extensive presence, with over 160 college chapters nationwide, empowers student leaders and academic advisors to play a crucial role in cultivating a pipeline of highly skilled and accomplished Black Business Leaders. These emerging leaders are equipped to assume influential positions, shaping decisions, actions, and policies that pave the way for an inclusive and just world. By acknowledging the impact of historical disadvantages and implementing measures to rectify them, affirmative action supports our work to create more equitable pathways for Black individuals to thrive in academia, workplaces, and society. As advocates for justice and equity, we call on policymakers, community leaders, and all individuals committed to the principles of fairness and equality to recognize the vital importance of affirmative action. It is imperative that we vehemently oppose further attempts to dismantle critical policies that have helped address the historical injustices Black communities face.

Now, more than ever, we must hold ourselves accountable for safeguarding the progress made in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We must work tirelessly to ensure that every individual, regardless of their race, has a fair chance to succeed. Together, let us build a society that truly reflects the values of justice, equality, and opportunity for all.

“With let-them-eat-cake obliviousness, today, the majority pulls the ripcord and announces ‘colorblindness for all’ by legal fiat. Although formal race linked legal barriers are gone, race still matters to the lived experiences of all Americans in innumerable ways, and today’s ruling makes things worse, not better.” – Ketanji Brown Jackson, Supreme Court Justice