Part 2: Why Affirmative Action is Still Necessary: Confronting Systemic Barriers and Historical Injustices.
In the second installment of our series on Affirmative Action, we shift our focus to the arguments underpinning its continued necessity. Proponents assert that the playing field is not yet level, and that systemic barriers and the long shadow of historical disadvantages continue to impede true equality of opportunity for racial minorities. This isn't about ignoring merit, but recognizing that merit is often stifled by deeply ingrained societal inequalities. The Unseen Hurdles: Systemic Barriers Imagine a race where some runners start with hurdles in their lanes while others have a clear path. This is the reality created by systemic barriers. These are not isolated incidents of prejudice, but rather institutionalized practices and policies that, while seemingly neutral on the surface, disproportionately disadvantage minority groups. One stark example lies in the use of credit reports in employment. For many, a credit score is a reflection of financial responsibility. However, due t...