Do We Still Need Affirmative Action?

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In a recent advertisement[1] in the Chronicle for Higher Education thirty-three individuals, scholars, and professionals joined the American Civil Rights Institute in stating, in part, that it is time to shift our focus from preferences to better preparation:

Our problem – our national tragedy – is that low-income black and Latino youngsters fall behind from day one in public schools, and they are dropping out of high school at very high rates – and this reflects major problems. Admission preferences based on race cannot overcome this unfortunate fact.

Race preferences:  

•    Obscure the real problem, which is the inadequate preparation of minority applicants

•    Compound the problem by admitting students who are marginally qualified, then perform weakly, and thus reinforce the stereotype of minority inferiority.

•    Create resentment and ultimately engender racial hostility.

•    Benefit mainly those who come from middle or upper class backgrounds and do nothing to help those who do not come from the preferred racial groups, but are hampered by socio-economic disadvantages.

•    Are plainly unjust and a violation of the spirit – if not also the letter – of the U.S. Constitution, which commands that “no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”

•    Preferences based on race or national origin are counterproductive, unfair, and soon to be eliminated.

Contrary to the original intent of “affirmative action”, many present day programs exist as color-conscious rather than color-blind programs.  Any program, whether named “affirmative action” or not, in which the government employs preferential treatment based on race, sex, ethnicity, skin color, or national origin should be abolished.  Eliminating this band-aid approach would force the focus to shift to ensuring better preparation and equal opportunity to all.