Affirmative Action in the Present

The history of this issue is lengthy and it's progress has been unbelievable. With the programs in effect today and the quotas most places are held to, Affirmative Action has accomplished a great deal. This is not in debate. What is being debated is whether Affirmative Action has run its course and should be phased out. Some feel that it's purposes have been achieved. Today, African-Americans are seen in a whole different light as compared with the past. Now, they are everyday inhabitants of the nation, an integral cog in the machinery of government, and people know this and respect it. Others, however, feel that it has only begun to have any effect and should be intensified, rather than abated. They say that African-Americans are only beginning to gain a foothold in what is still a predominantly white society. They need these programs and quotas to further themselves and attain an equitable position as they so rightly deserve. This has become a disagreement over two views, two philosophies. The government has skirted the issue, avoiding whatever critics and skeptics it can.

Jon's Opinion It is impossible to legislate a change in mindset for the entire nation. That's a fact. That's why prejudice against minorities still exists in this country. Programs like affirmative action are still needed to level the playing field for everyone. How can we send a positive message to minority communities if they are continually discriminated against?

Alan's Opinion Affirmative Action is the wussies' way of cutting corners. If the proponents of these programs were actually forced to face the harsh reality of the world and earn that which they desire, they would see just how unfair these Affirmative Action programs are. Somehow, in the grand scheme of reality, quality has become less important as one's skin color, sex, or minority affiliation increases in value. These programs, in attempting to level the playing field, only tilt it further in the opposite direction, throwing the whole contraption out of orbit and spinning wildly into the sun. Once the recipients of these programs move past them and into the real world, they will learn the hard way that minority affiliations are no substitute for skill and quality.