Is Affirmative Action Sill Relevant?

Is Affirmative Action Sill Relevant?

Affirmative action is defined as program to stop discrimination: a policy or program aimed at countering discrimination against minorities and women, especially in employment and education. Affirmative Action was developed and enforced by President Johnson as a means to ensure active measures be taken so that blacks and other minorities enjoyed the same opportunities for promotions, salary increases, career advancement, school admissions, scholarships, and financial aid.

The purpose of affirmative action is to provide job opportunities for applicants who might otherwise face special obstacles. In particular, these policies are designed to boost employment among historically disadvantaged minority groups. Unlike EEO laws, affirmative action policies are enforceable only in the public sector and in companies holding government contracts. However, an increasing number of private employers choose to comply voluntarily with affirmative action guidelines as a means of improving workforce diversity as cited by Equal Employment Opportunities & Affirmative Action Laws.

Pros of Affirmative Action according to the article “What are the Pros and Cons of Affirmative Action?”

* Racial and sexual discrimination still exists today. If Affirmative Action policies should ever be phased out the discrimination against minorities will sure to increase.

* Diversity in workplaces and schools is desirable and needs to be encouraged

* Students from ethnic minority backgrounds need a stepping stone to enjoy the kind of privileges taken for granted by white kids and affirmative action policies encourage disadvantaged students to enter the higher educational system.

* Affirmative action is fair compensation for centuries of racial oppression and slavery.

* Affirmative action in the workplace is the best way to ensure candidates from ethnic minorities are given a chance to prove they are every bit as capable as white...