Following the 2023 Supreme Court decision against race-conscious admissions, Harvard Law School has experienced a significant shift in its student demographics. The New York Times reports a drop in first-year Black student enrollment to 3.4% of the class, the lowest since the 1960s. This translates to 19 Black students compared to 43 the previous year.

Harvard Law School spokesman, Jeff Neal, emphasized the institution's continued dedication to a diverse student body, highlighting its importance in legal education. While acknowledging the impact of the Supreme Court ruling, Neal stated that it's too early to fully grasp the long-term effects. He reiterated the school's commitment to complying with the law while fostering an inclusive environment reflecting diverse experiences.

Some Harvard faculty members express deeper concerns. Professor David B. Wilkins, who specializes in Black representation in law, connects the enrollment decline directly to the Supreme Court's decision. He cited historical data indicating that Black student enrollment has typically been much higher. The Times also highlighted Professor Wilkins' observation regarding the particularly low number of Black men in the incoming class.

The decline isn't limited to Black students; Hispanic enrollment has also decreased. Conversely, white and Asian student enrollment has seen an increase.

Sean Wynn, president of the Harvard Black Law Students Association, expressed disappointment at the drop, describing it as a significant loss impacting the overall law school experience.

However, UCLA law professor Richard Sander, a critic of affirmative action, offers a different perspective. He points to a slight increase in Black student enrollment across all law schools, suggesting that the situation is more nuanced. Sander also proposes that the shift in enrollment might benefit Black students by placing them in environments where they are better suited to thrive.