Affirmative Action was to ensure that all people were given an equal opportunity for employment, schooling, etc. While it may allow some minorities to achieve goals they may never have been able to without this plan, I don't think it is fair to people in the unprotected classes. Yes, I am aware that I am member of the protected class , a woman over age 40. That being said, I started discussing this topic with my 17 year old son who has applied to a variety of colleges. He asked me the questions, "What if I don't get into the college of my choice and some girl gets in instead to fill a quota? Would that really be fair?" When I look at it from this prospective, I have to agree with him that it wouldn't be fair. In addition, I think of the Bakke vs. University of California case, we talked about in class. Yes, it is wonderful that minority students are getting an opportunity to achieve their dreams of becoming doctors, but at who's expense? Our children. To be quite honest, I don't consider myself to be prejudice but when I go the the doctor, I want to be assured that not only is he/she the best to be making decisions on my life, I also need to be able to understand him/her (does the doctor speak English clearly enough so I understand my options?) I realize that the demographics of our country are changing and therefore, doctors and other professionals will come from more diverse backgrounds, but why should my son or daughters be passed over for a college or job because someone from a monority also applies for that positions. If this is what has become of Affirmative Action, then I think it's time to make some serious changes to the program.
When Affirmative Action Plans first started, I think it helped people of diverse background get a break. I'd like to think that in this day and age, those doing the hiring are looking to fill the positions with the candidate best suited for the job and not the one that has to be hired for Affirmative Action purposes. This is a tough issue and as far as our country has come, I realize I am being naive thinking that everyone will get a fair chance without Affirmative Action Plans .
I guess the questions remains, however, is it a Plan that is fair to everyone regardless of demographics? I don't think so. ss
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