Title VI

Overview

On June 29, 2023, in an opinion authored by Chief Justice Roberts, a 6-3 majority of the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Harvard College and the University of North Carolina’s race-conscious admissions process, finding that both programs failed to meet the requirements of strict scrutiny. See, Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, 600 U.S. 181 (2023). Most recently, this case has been frequently cited by courts and by the Department of Education as requiring federally funded higher education institutions to scrutinize thematic or affinity-based programs and offerings, as well as broader Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.

Our team, comprised of attorneys, paralegals, consultants, and higher education specialists, believes proactivity in this arena is key. Our team can help your institution proactively re-design your programs and policies to comply with the implications of the Supreme Court decisions and other federal guidance, and prepare for continued evolution of the legal landscape.

Whatever the state of your existing affirmative action or DEI efforts, our multifaceted team can help assess your obligations, identify potential gaps and risks in your current policies and practices, redesign your programs, and train employees on new legal standards.