I’m an Asian American student, and I’ve changed my mind about affirmative action

Students walk through campus at the University of Illinois Chicago. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down affirmative action, which had helped colleges maintain diversity. (Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times)

If you had asked for my opinion on affirmative action two years ago, I probably would have given you an emphatic response. It would have been a critical rebuke of the system, driven by data, logic and emotional appeal. In recent weeks, my feelings have completely changed. 

I’m an Asian American student preparing to apply to college this fall. Last month’s Supreme Court decision on affirmative action should have felt like a major win for me and my community. Instead, it has only deepened my concern for the future of my peers and our unity.