The Controversial End to Affirmative Action: "Equal Opportunity” or a Step Backward?
Yasmine Ganemtore
Is affirmative action still necessary in today's society? According to the Supreme Court, which overturned the controversial policy in a landmark ruling last month, the answer is no. Affirmative action has aimed to level the playing field for historically marginalized groups, particularly people of color and women, for several decades. While affirmative action strives to promote equal opportunities for these groups, recent news about SCOTUS’ attack against the policy has sparked controversy, causing heated debates between advocates and opponents.
Affirmative action was initially proposed by President Kennedy in 1961 through Executive Order 10925. The order aimed to ensure that federal contractors hired individuals based solely on their qualifications, without discrimination based on demographics such as race, religion, or gender. In 1965, President Johnson further institutionalized affirmative action for government contractors and demanded its implementation in education. Since then, affirmative action has become entangled in debate, with many moves to abolish it and equal attempts to uphold its place in society.
The policy has elicited two opposing views. Supporters of affirmative action argue that it provides equal opportunities for historically marginalized groups who have suffered from patterns of discrimination based on race, gender, and ethnicity. They also argue that affirmative action’s discontinuation would negatively impact diversity in colleges and universities since schools and businesses could overlook minority groups when admitting or hiring students and employees. Moreover, ending affirmative action would only perpetuate discrimination and keep existing hierarchies in place, further shutting out minority voices. This argument suggests that affirmative action aims to decrease the systemic discrimination that often prevents marginalized individuals from reaching their full potential.
On the other hand, opponents of affirmative action contend that the policy promotes “reverse discrimination,” arguing that it grants preferential treatment to minorities. They believe that admissions-based decisions should be based solely on merit and qualifications, rather than on demographics. Opponents also suggest that affirmative action creates an uneven playing field for certain demographics, such as white and Asian-American candidates, who may be denied opportunities despite their excellent qualifications due to their race or ethnicity. Opponents propose that ending affirmative action would help create equal opportunities for all without giving preferential treatment to minorities.
Affirmative action has played a vital role in promoting diversity and providing equal opportunities for minority groups who have historically experienced discrimination in education and employment. However, the decision to end affirmative action is a contentious and heavily debated topic that will undoubtedly reshape the way education and employment are structured in the future. The policy’s discontinuation raises concerns about the existing structures of privilege, systemic racism, and diversity. It is essential for policymakers and stakeholders to consider all sides of the argument, weigh the pros and cons, and arrive at a reasonable decision that ensures that equal opportunities exist for all individuals, regardless of their ethno-cultural background. Each group has their own opinion on affirmative action, and it is crucial to strike a balance that considers the best interests of all involved. A fair and balanced system that promotes equality is necessary for the progress of the nation and the overall welfare of its people. Policymakers and stakeholders must prioritize diversity and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to succeed; it is only through such actions that a truly just and equitable society can arise.