Judge Rules Naval Academy May Consider Race in Admissions
A federal judge in Baltimore, MD, ruled
that the U.S. Naval Academy can continue its race-conscious admissions policies despite the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision rejecting affirmative action in college admissions. The case, brought by Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA), argued that the Academy’s use of race in admissions should be prohibited. However, Judge Richard D. Bennett concluded that the Academy had shown a compelling need for racial diversity in its Officer Corps to ensure national security. He emphasized the history of racial tensions in the military and cited how a lack of diversity had previously undermined military preparedness, making it necessary to reflect the nation’s demographics.
The ruling noted that the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision specifically allowed for exceptions in military academies due to their unique role in preparing officers for national defense. Bennett supported this carve-out, noting that diversity in leadership has been a priority for the military for decades, especially after historical racial unrest, such as during the 1960s. The Judge cited the importance of having an Officer Corps that represents the diverse composition of the military and the country it defends. Despite these efforts, there remains a significant underrepresentation of racial minorities among officers, even though more than half of enlisted service members are racial minorities.
While the plaintiffs argued for race-neutral alternatives to achieve diversity, the Court found that no such alternatives would meet the government’s needs for diversity in the Officer Corps. The ruling upheld the Naval Academy’s approach, stating it does not use quotas or admissions tracks based solely on race.
The decision is seen as a victory for the military’s diversity efforts. The SFFA plans to appeal the ruling.
