Why Do Liberals Think Affirmative Action Is Justified?

Introduction

Everyone justifies affirmative action based on their own interests. One perspective is that of making America great again, another is simply an appeal to a survival instinct. All arguments are fundamentally rooted in personal contexts. As a senior citizen from a military background, I can share a unique insight into the inception and early implementation of affirmative action.

A Historical Journey

Affirmative actionstarted with President John F. Kennedy and was further enhanced during Lyndon B. Johnson's term. I, being 70 years old and from a military family, witnessed affirmative action firsthand. The doctor who delivered me, a Black Captain, was my witness to growing up in a society where there was still latent prejudice, even in the military. My parents, despite the military's supposed equality, found themselves excluded when visiting a movie theater on base, where viewers were predominantly Black or racially mixed.

In my early teens, I realized the condescending nature of the language and attitudes surrounding affirmative action. Despite this, I was fortunate to skip a grade, an experience that starkly contrasts with the obstacles faced by those from minority backgrounds. Would I have handled the reverse situation, the answer is no. It is crucial to understand that while affirmative action is a tool for redress, its application can vary widely and sometimes perpetuates stereotypes.

Past and Present

The efforts behind affirmative action are aimed at correcting past legally endorsed discrimination. Richard Nixon was one of the presidents who started this initiative. In my experience, as a firefighter, the city had a policy of only giving applications to approved candidates. This led to a consent decree, and we waited over five years to achieve a 30% minority ratio in the workforce.

When it came to promotions, the issue became even more contentious. However, the lesson remains clear: avoiding prejudice in hiring is essential. The most capable applicants should be hired, and attempts to correct past injustices can sometimes complicate the hiring process. The key is to focus on merit and impartiality.

Civil Rights and Oppression

Understanding the historical context of affirmative action is crucial. Some argue that conservatives believe in the justification of slavery and oppression due to a literal interpretation of the Bible. However, this oversimplifies the complex socio-political history of the United States.

Liberals, on the other hand, may resort to any means available, such as affirmative action, to minimize and debase minorities, often creating an illusion of help and savior status. This approach seeks to paint liberals as concerned and generous, thereby gaining more votes. It is important to recognize that while affirmative action serves an important purpose, its implementation must be carefully considered to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and biases.

Conclusion

Affirmative action aims to address past injustices but its application can be fraught with challenges. By understanding its historical context and the intentions behind its implementation, we can work towards a fair and just society. The goal is to promote merit and eliminate prejudiced practices, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to succeed.