In the beginning, racial classifications that identified race were inherently suspect and subject to strict scrutiny. These classifications would only be upheld if necessary to promote a compelling governmental interest. Later the U.S. Supreme Court decided that racial classifications that benefited underrepresented minorities were to only be upheld if necessary and promoted a compelling governmental purpose. (See Richmond v. J.A. Croson Co.) There is no clear guidance about when government action is not "compelling", and such rulings are rare. COUNT 4
QSN1 What kind of classification was subject to strict scrutiny? ANS1 racial QSN2 What was the only situation in which a racial classification could be considered acceptable? ANS2 necessary to promote a compelling governmental interest QSN3 Who later confirmed that racial classifications were only to be upheld if they were necessary? ANS3 U.S. Supreme Court QSN4 What is an example case that can help display where upholding a racial classification is beneficial? ANS4 Richmond v. J.A. Croson Co.