Trump Is Right About Affirmative Action

theatlantic.comPublished: 6/5/2025

Summary

Trump's administration has significantly impacted American civil rights by opposing affirmative action (AA), which critics argue has shifted focus from systemic racial inequalities to personal race, reinforcing racial hierarchies. Conservative scholars suggest that class-based AA could mitigate these issues by considering applicants' economic backgrounds. While alternative approaches like merit-based opportunities offer promise, their implementation is hindered by a reactive political climate prioritizing personal grievance over systemic justice. The conclusion underscores the need for inclusive solutions to address structural disparities and achieve true equality.