Colorblind Constitution: The Roberts Court Ends A 'Sordid Business'

The Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais, prohibiting racial gerrymandering, is the focus of the commentary. This decision, rooted in decades of jurisprudence, reflects a commitment to a colorblind legal system. Chief Justice Roberts is a key figure in this shift, advocating against racial discrimination in all forms. The court has long struggled with the use of race to achieve aims like equity and diversity, with some opinions proving problematic. The decision in Callais, authored by Justice Alito, reinforces a bright-line rule against racial criteria in districting. The author emphasizes that this is not a sudden change, but the culmination of previous rulings. The decision doesn't gut the Voting Rights Act but clarifies it to prevent racial manipulation of districts. The court will continue to strike down rules that suppress minority voters, acknowledging that racial discrimination persists. Despite the challenges, the author expresses hope, highlighting progress in racial equality and political representation. The decision represents a step towards ending the practice of "divvying us up by race."