ABA Revises Diversity Standards for Law Schools Amid Affirmative Action Changes

The American Bar Association (ABA) is adjusting the language of its diversity standards for law schools following its prior decision in August to omit references to race, ethnicity, and other identities. This change comes in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision, which struck down affirmative action in higher education, sparking opposition from legal professionals. The specific modifications to the diversity standards are part of a comprehensive effort to align the ABA’s policies with recent legal developments and the evolving expectations of the legal community in regard to diversity and inclusion.

Details on the ABA’s revised approach reflect a broader recognition of the need for a nuanced strategy addressing diversity without explicitly referencing sensitive identity attributes, underscoring the complexity of implementing inclusive policies post-affirmative action. For additional insights, the original report is available at Law360.