- A Critical Race Theory Perspective on Affirmative Action Programs
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Abstract:
- Though it has been nearly six decades since affirmative action policies first gained way, time has not quelled controversy. While these policies are in place with the aim to allocate additional resources for those belonging to groups known to have been discriminated against historically- both the acceptance and effectiveness of this mandate are debated against by the broader society (Velasquez et al., n.d). Critics of this program argue that when distributing social benefits such as jobs or educational opportunities, recipients should be treated as equals unless there are morally relevant reasons for treating them differently (Velasquez et al., n.d). Supporters of the policy argue that it is the most expedient and fairest way to overcome racial and sexist barriers in our society (Velasquez et al., n.d). Nonetheless, it is questionable whether the government actually achieved its mandate to help disadvantaged people through this program, or not. Specifically, for those who belong in racially disadvantaged groups. As such, this paper seeks to analyze, through the critical race theory perspective, to what extent do affirmative action policies succeed in their mandate to aid members of traditionally disadvantaged groups?
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