The Benefits Of Affirmative Action

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America, the land of opportunity. This is a statement I have heard all my life, but is it really true? Is America the land of opportunity for everyone, or just a select few? Yes, it is a fact that we have a black president, but does that mean we have overcome the need for Affirmative action? Although affirmative action has been a topic of conflict for many years, sadly enough, it is still a concept that is greatly misunderstood. Affirmative action programs were put in place in an effort to give everyone, regardless of color, gender, or disability access to any opportunity for which they are qualified. Affirmative action is still very necessary, not only does it level the playing field, it also supports the growing diversity that is a vital …show more content…

The concept was put into place in 1961, by President John F. Kennedy. In the early years, only racial minorities were represented. In 1967, President Johnson saw fit to incorporate gender into the program. As affirmative action continued to prove beneficial, President Gerald Ford, made changes to the program as well, in 1973 he expanded coverage to individuals with disabilities. In 1974, President Ford again adjusted the policies, signing the Vietnam Era Veteran’s Assistance Act, which ensured that veterans from Vietnam era, as well as special disabled veterans were extended the same positive benefits as the previous recipients under the affirmative action …show more content…

The future of our country is unlimited. As a country we must make sure to prepare not only the race, gender and class of those individuals who have traditionally been leaders, but every member of our great nation. Affirmative action is very important in assuring that everyone has a chance to make a difference, not only for themselves, but for society as a whole.
As with any political topic, there are those who oppose affirmative action. Some of them argue that people should be chosen based on merit and not by race or gender. (www.civil-rights.lawyers.com) In response to this, I would encourage those who use this argument to re-evaluate the true definition of affirmative action. The policies call for all who are qualified to have an equal chance, the key part of this being qualified, affirmative action is not in place to give any individual a “free ride.”
Another point opponents present is that, “Affirmative action shouldn’t be used to fix past discrimination.” (www.civil-rights.lawyers.com) Sadly enough, I don’t believe there is anything that we as a country can do to make up for the injustices of our past, however, it is crucial for the future of this country that we address the negative effects of the past and ensure that history does not repeat itself. Affirmative action plays an important role in framing what we consider acceptable in the future of this

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