Mayor Brandon Johnson on Thursday issued a statement responding to the U.S. Supreme Court decision to end affirmative action saying it is "devastating for decades of progress toward creating equitable and inclusive education opportunities for students of color." Affirmative action was a way "generations of children were allowed access to institutions, access to ideas, and access to cultures that a wicked system of discrimination had long excluded them from," Johnson said. "This decision will only further divide communities and strain existing inequities in higher education, but through those inequities will come opportunities for organizing and excellence in the face of struggle."

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle also issued a statement on the decision saying the "ruling is one firmly rooted in racism." Preckwinkle said that while affirmative action hasn't been a perfect solution, it "has been critical as we promote diversity and inclusion in institutions that had systematically excluded individuals on the basis of race throughout our history." Leaders have a "duty to rectify the wrongs of this systemic racism. Now, what was an instrument of hope — that cut through the discrimination that still exists in our country and helped open doors for already qualified students — will be out of reach for those of us who recognize that duty." Leaders must continue to advocate for "policies that address systemic inequality and promote diversity," Preckwinkle said. "We must continue working toward a society that embraces the contributions of all individuals. The fight for equity, equality and justice continues despite this setback."