Affirmative action

Definition

Affirmative action refers to policies and practices aimed at increasing the representation of historically marginalized groups in areas like education and employment. These measures were primarily designed to combat discrimination and promote equal opportunities for people of color, women, and other underrepresented groups, particularly in the wake of the civil rights movement and its legislative achievements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The roots of affirmative action can be traced back to the civil rights movement, where activists pushed for policies that would address systemic inequality.
2. Executive Order 11246, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, was one of the first federal mandates requiring affirmative action in government contracting.
3. Affirmative action policies often involve setting specific goals for minority representation in educational institutions and workplaces.
4. Supporters argue that affirmative action is essential for creating a level playing field, while critics contend it can lead to reverse discrimination against majority groups.
5. Various Supreme Court decisions have shaped the implementation of affirmative action over the years, leading to ongoing debates about its legality and effectiveness.

Review Questions

• How did the civil rights movement influence the development and implementation of affirmative action policies?
  • The civil rights movement was a catalyst for affirmative action policies as it highlighted the systemic inequalities faced by marginalized groups. Activists fought for equal rights and opportunities, which led to increased awareness and demand for measures to address historical discrimination. As a result, affirmative action emerged as a means to promote diversity and inclusion, especially in education and employment, reflecting the values and goals set forth by civil rights leaders.
• Evaluate the arguments for and against affirmative action in the context of its impact on educational institutions and workplaces.
  • Supporters argue that affirmative action is necessary to rectify historical injustices and create equal opportunities for marginalized groups, thereby enriching educational environments and workplaces with diverse perspectives. On the other hand, critics argue that such policies can lead to reverse discrimination, potentially disadvantaging qualified candidates from majority groups. This ongoing debate challenges institutions to balance fairness and equality while striving for inclusivity.
• Analyze the implications of the Bakke case on affirmative action policies in higher education and how it continues to affect discussions about equity today.
  • The Bakke case had significant implications for affirmative action as it established that while race could be considered in college admissions, strict quotas were unconstitutional. This ruling shaped how institutions approach diversity initiatives by emphasizing holistic review processes rather than numerical goals. The case continues to influence discussions about equity by prompting ongoing debates over how best to achieve diversity without infringing on merit-based principles, making it a key reference point in contemporary conversations surrounding affirmative action.

Related terms

Civil Rights Act of 1964:

A landmark piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in various aspects of public life.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): A federal agency established to enforce laws against workplace discrimination and to promote equal opportunity in employment.

Bakke case: A significant Supreme Court case from 1978 that upheld affirmative action but ruled against the use of strict racial quotas in college admissions.