2001: University of California regents repeal their ban on affirmative action, hoping to send a welcoming message to minority students. The move is largely symbolic since California voters passed Proposition 209 in 1996, which continues to prohibit race-conscious policies in the state.
2002: The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals rules in favor of the University of Michigan's affirmative action policy in admissions to the law school (Grutter v. Bollinger), reversing a lower court ruling and upholding the university's position that it has a compelling interest in achieving a diverse student body.
2002: A federal judge approves a desegregation plan for Mississippi's universities, signaling an end to a 27-year-old legal battle. Mississippi lawmakers pledge to fulfill the requirements of the settlement, expected to cost more than $500 million.
2003: U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the University of Michigan's undergraduate admissions policy, which uses a point-based system for applicants, while still allowing the consideration of race. In addition, the Court upholds the law school's admissions policy, which used a less mechanical admissions formula.
2004: Black Issues In Higher Education celebrates its 20th anniversary.
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