Karly Sarita Ford, Penn State

When the Supreme Court struck down race-based admissions at American colleges and universities just over a year ago, many predicted U.S. campuses would become much less diverse. But in part due to students who decide not to disclose their race or ethnicity, coupled with universities’ selective use of statistics, it is not clear how much the decision has affected diversity on campus.

As higher education institutions begin reporting the racial makeup of the class of 2028 – the first to be affected by the 2023 decision – the data is hard to interpret, confusing and inconclusive.

As a sociologist who has studied how institutions of higher education collect and report data on race and ethnicity, I have identified some factors that contribute to this lack of clarity.

Students don’t identify with choices given

Some students may not select a racial or ethnic category because they don’t believe any of the categories really fit. For example, before multiracial students could select “one or more,” an option that became widely available in 2010, they were more likely to decline to identify their race or ethnicity. Some even boycotted checkboxes entirely.

Other students don’t view their race as important: 67% of the students who choose “race and ethnicity unknown” are white. Of these students, 33% say race and ethnicity are not a relevant part of their identity, a researcher found in 2008.

The number of students who don’t respond to questions about race or ethnicity – and are listed in the “race unknown” category – is increasing. At Harvard University, for example, the percentage of “race-unknown” undergrad students doubled from 2023 to 2024.

As the number of “race unknown” students grows, it not only becomes harder to determine a student body’s ethnic and racial diversity but also the impact of the ban on race-conscious admissions.

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Fearing discrimination, students don’t disclose race

Some students believe their race or ethnicity will harm their chances of admission.

This is particularly true at many selective institutions, which have higher nonresponse rates than less selective institutions, about 4% compared with 1% to 2%.

My research shows that students are even more likely to pass on identifying race or ethnicity at selective law schools, where race and ethnicity could be used among a variety of criteria for admissions before the Supreme Court ruled against that practice. An average of 8% of students at those schools chose not to identify, compared with 4% at less selective law schools.

‘We’re very diverse’: University decisions distort statistics

What a university chooses to report will also affect the student body demographic data the public sees. Harvard, for example, does not report its proportion of white students.

Some institutions use statistics strategically to appear more diverse than they are. These strategies include counting multiracial students multiple times – once for each race selected – or including international students as a separate category in demographic pie charts. The greater the number of different-colored slices on the chart, the more demographically “diverse” an institution appears to be.

Impact of Supreme Court ruling: Clearer picture coming soon

While universities may not all report their student demographics the same way in their own materials, they all have to report it the same way to the federal government – namely, to its Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System, better known as IPEDS. The next IPEDS report on characteristics for the 2024 enrollment class is expected to be released in spring 2025. Once that data is available, a better picture of how the Supreme Court’s decision has affected diversity in college enrollment should emerge.

That clearer picture might not last long. In 2027, the federal government will require colleges and universities to make changes to how they report student race and ethnicity. Among the changes is the addition of a Middle Eastern and North African category. Under the current standard, Middle Eastern and North African students are counted as white. As a result, white enrollment at some colleges and universities will appear to decline after 2027.

The new standards will also change the way universities treat Hispanic or Latino ethnicity on enrollment forms. Today, if students self-identify as Hispanic and white, they will be categorized as Hispanic. If students select Hispanic and white in 2027, they will be categorized as multiracial. The revised categories will muddy the impact of the Supreme Court’s decision. A drop in the number of Hispanic students reported could be due to the court’s ruling. Or it may result from the new way students will be counted.

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Until universities and colleges adjust to the new guidelines about collecting and reporting race – and as long as students decline to provide their racial identities – the full effect of banning consideration of race in college admissions will remain a cloudy picture at best.

Karly Sarita Ford, Associate Professor of Education and Sociology, Penn State

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

(Family Features) Whether it’s pride, pain, inspiration, nostalgia or a combination of sentiments, any time veterans tell their stories, there’s a good chance they’ll evoke strong emotions from both the tellers and their audiences. Those feelings are often well-warranted as many veterans have been through intense experiences in the name of service to their country.

United States Army Staff Sergeant Shilo A. Harris’ story is no exception.

Although he wanted to be a soldier his entire life, it wasn’t until after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 that Harris felt compelled to enlist in the Army. He went to basic training at age 27 and began his career as a cavalry scout stationed in Germany. During his second deployment to Iraq, his life forever changed.

On Feb. 19, 2007, Harris was on patrol when his military vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED). The estimated 700-pound IED, which was buried in the road, blew the vehicle “to pieces,” killed three soldiers and critically injured Harris and the vehicle’s driver.

While he survived the explosion, Harris spent the next 48 days in a medically induced coma while doctors worked to heal the third-degree burns covering 35% of his body and multiple fractured bones. Harris lost both ears, three fingers and the tip of his nose. He underwent more than 75 surgeries and three years of intensive rehabilitation to regain basic abilities and maintain an independent lifestyle.

Harris retired from the Army in 2010 and is determined to keep a grateful outlook despite struggling with post-traumatic stress and ongoing care needs.

“I do have bad days, but for the most part I live my life because life is worth living,” Harris said.

He now shares his experiences through motivational speaking and writing books. He also submitted his oral history to the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP).

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The Veterans History Project is a national effort to collect, preserve and make accessible the first-hand remembrances of U.S. military veterans from World War I through more recent conflicts and peacetime missions so future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand what they saw, did and felt during their service. 

The stories veterans carry with them are powerful and shape who they are. Stories can hold valuable lessons, details of accomplishments and battles won or memories of friendship and camaraderie. They can also serve as reminders of sacrifice and hardship.

Participating with VHP can be as simple as recording a 30-minute (or longer) video or audio interview sharing details of your service. Veterans, or families of veterans, may also submit a minimum 20-page diary, journal or unpublished memoir and/or 10 original photos or letters. Each collection is added to the permanent archives of the Library of Congress then made accessible to the public online and in-person.

To get started, visit loc.gov/vets and click “How to Participate” to download a field kit and access more details and instructions.

Photo of men talking courtesy of Getty Images

Photo of soldier courtesy of Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Shilo Harris Collection, AFC2001/001/113534.

SOURCE:
Library of Congress Veterans History Project

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

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The Watts district of Los Angeles is a historically significant neighborhood that has undergone many changes over the years. Known for its rich cultural heritage and landmarks, Watts is perhaps most infamous for the 1965 Watts Riots, which had a profound impact on the community and its development.

Early History and Development

Originally a rural area, Watts was home to farms and ranches. In the early 1900s, it began developing as a residential neighborhood. By the 1920s, Watts had transformed into a thriving community. A testament to its rich history, one of the most notable landmarks of the area is the Watts Towers. These are a series of 17 interconnected sculptures created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia between 1921 and 1954. Made of steel, concrete, and mosaic tiles, the towers stand as a National Historic Landmark and a popular tourist attraction. The towering structures are symbolic of the creativity and perseverance that permeate the community.

Demographic Shifts and Social Tensions

The 1950s and 1960s were times of significant demographic changes for Watts. Many African American families moved into the area, significantly increasing the population. However, the growth came with challenges, as the community struggled with poverty, unemployment, and crime. Tensions between the police and residents steadily escalated, culminating in a tragic and historic event.

On August 11, 1965, a traffic stop in Watts led to a confrontation between police and residents. This incident ignited six days of rioting that resulted in 34 deaths, over 1,000 injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage. The riots had an enduring impact on the community, exposing systemic issues of marginalization and neglect by the broader Los Angeles area.

Post-Riot Rebirth and Resilience

In the years following the riots, Watts underwent significant changes aimed at rebuilding and revitalization. The community received funding for new housing developments, job training programs, and various social services. Efforts to restore and preserve the Watts Towers also began, and the structures became an emblem of the community’s resilience and adaptability.

Watts continued to evolve, further enriched by its cultural landmarks and the spirit of its people. The Watts Summer Festival, established in the aftermath of the riots, is one such example. It serves both as a commemoration of the community’s struggles and as a celebration of its enduring strength and unity.

Modern-Day Watts

Today, Watts stands as a symbol of transformation and resilience. While challenges still exist, efforts in community development, education, and arts continue to shape its future positively. The Watts Empowerment Center and various community organizations play vital roles in providing resources, opportunities, and a sense of hope for residents.

The legacy of the Watts district is a poignant reminder of the complexities and richness of American urban history. Its ongoing journey reflects the spirit and tenacity of a community that has faced great adversity and continues to strive towards a brighter future.

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Conclusion

From its beginnings as a rural expanse to its development into a vibrant community, Watts embodies the dynamic narrative of change and resilience. Its history is marked by notable landmarks like the Watts Towers and significant events such as the 1965 riots. The district’s story is one of rebirth and tenacity, continuing to evolve and inspire, ensuring that Watts remains a cornerstone of cultural and historical significance in Los Angeles.

Today, the Watts district stands as a vibrant and diverse community, teeming with life and energy. Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, this area showcases a rich tapestry of cultures, all contributing to its unique and dynamic character. Recent years have seen the district undergo significant redevelopment, ushering in a new era of growth and revitalization. New businesses, trendy restaurants, and innovative cultural institutions have taken root, breathing fresh life into the neighborhood. These developments signal not only economic growth but also a renewed sense of community pride and cohesion.

A symbol of this resilience and creativity is the iconic Watts Towers. These towering structures, built by Simon Rodia over a span of 33 years, remain a beloved landmark and a testament to the community’s spirit and ingenuity. They stand as both historical monuments and sources of inspiration, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at their intricate designs and the story they represent.

Beyond its present-day vibrancy, the Watts district holds a storied past that is deeply woven into the fabric of Los Angeles’ history. Initially a rural area, it evolved into a thriving residential community. However, the district’s journey was not without its trials. The 1965 Watts Riots marked a turbulent chapter in its history, highlighting the profound social and economic inequalities faced by its residents. Despite this, the community’s resilience shone through as it worked tirelessly to rebuild and heal.

In conclusion, the Watts district of Los Angeles is a historically significant neighborhood that has witnessed profound changes over the years. From its origins as a rural enclave to its transformation into a bustling residential community and through the challenges of the 1965 riots, Watts boasts a rich and complex history. Today, it stands resilient and continues to evolve, embodying the strength and spirit of its residents who strive for a brighter future. The Watts district is not just a neighborhood; it is a testament to the enduring power of community and the ability to overcome adversity.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/stm-blog/blog/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts%2C_Los_Angeles

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts_riots

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