what is affirmative action

Affirmative action refers to a policy or set of policies aimed at increasing opportunities in employment, education, and other areas for groups that have been historically underrepresented or subjected to discrimination. It is designed to counteract the effects of past discrimination by providing limited preferences or special consideration to individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, disability, national origin, and other demographic factors. The main goals of affirmative action include promoting diversity, ensuring equal access to opportunities, and remedying the disadvantages faced by certain groups in society. It originated in the United States in the 1960s as a way to enforce civil rights legislation and reduce systemic discrimination, especially against racial minorities and women. Affirmative action policies often involve measures like setting hiring or admission goals, awarding scholarships and grants, and encouraging the participation of underrepresented groups in educational and professional settings. However, affirmative action has been subject to legal challenges and controversies, particularly regarding the use of race in college admissions. Notably, in 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that race-based affirmative action in college admissions violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, meaning colleges could no longer consider race as a factor for admission. Overall, affirmative action is an active effort to create more equitable opportunities in society by addressing historical and ongoing discrimination and promoting inclusion and diversity in areas such as education and employment. It also covers protections and support for veterans and people with disabilities.