Affirmative Action :: essays research papers

Affirmative action has two distinct meanings. The first definition of affirmative action refers to individuals having equal opportunity without regard to their sex, race, and religion. The second meaning is almost exactly the same, except that it is directly related to sex, race, and religion. Affirmative action was brought about to ensure the freedom and rid of discrimination in many different situations. For example, many "Upper Class " jobs, such as government employment, were rarely ever given to the minority classes. Although, affirmative action has had numerous negative impacts despite the fact that it was created for the good of society.(http://www.adversity.net/Terms_Definitions/TERMS/Affirmative_Action.htm) The United States authorized the Civil Rights in 1964, as a result, many problems were brought about in society and the way it functioned. Many disadvantages and consequences were faced for people with physical complications such as those with handicaps or the elderly. In time, the problem became greater and something had to be done in order to resolve this issue. On September 24, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson made Executive Order #11246 official at Howard University which required federal employees "to take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed..without regard to their race, creed, color, or national origin." Without knowing so, President Johnson had created one of the most problematic and ironically one of the most segregated legislations.(Compton’s Interactive Encyclopedia) At first affirmative action was made in order to assist the under privileged people of America which was highly discriminated against when the Civil Rights act was brought about. There was social conflict, economic stress, and racial tension did not make the position of those with no source of income any easier. Was it a coincidence that most entrepreneur, business leaders, and managing positions in the United States was held by white males? It did not take long before the majority realized that the business leaders and corporate executives were discriminating towards minorities and those not of the same race, religion, or sex. President Johnson's choice was highly approved by most of the middle and lower class people. Naturally, the leaders, executives, and managers did not think highly of President Johnson.(Compton’s Interactive Encyclopedia) Not so long after the legislation was passed, many minority groups were already seeking revenge and were looking to take advantage of the newly implemented affirmative action laws. The main minority group that was affected by the new laws were those of African-American decent.