In a 6-to-3 decision, the Supreme Court has ruled that race can no longer be considered in college admission decisions, effectively putting an end to affirmative action. This ruling comes after decades of backlash and legal battles against the policy. Affirmative action was originally implemented in response to the civil rights movement, aiming to increase the representation of Black students in selective colleges and universities. However, the policy faced criticism and lawsuits, ultimately leading to its demise in this recent Supreme Court decision.

The impact of this ruling will vary across states. In Texas, for example, where the University of Texas at Austin is the only public university that still considers race in admission decisions, the impact will be limited. However, it is crucial to note that the ruling does not justify a return to discrimination or bias against minorities. The Supreme Court emphasizes the importance of race neutrality and equal protection.

Legacy admissions, a practice whereby preference is given to applicants with familial connections to a university, have also come under scrutiny. In the same Supreme Court decision, opposing opinions from conservative and liberal justices criticized Harvard's use of legacy preferences. President Joe Biden has also expressed his concerns about legacy admissions and has instructed the Department of Education to analyze practices that hinder inclusivity and diversity in student bodies.

With this ruling, a major chapter in the affirmative action debate has come to a close. However, the impact and implications of this decision will continue to be debated and analyzed in the years to come.