The Supreme Court recently made a landmark decision to put an end to the long-standing practice of using race as a determining factor in college admissions. This practice, known as affirmative action, has been deemed illegal, unconstitutional, and unfair to qualified applicants.
Affirmative action, which began during President John F. Kennedy’s administration, was originally meant to uplift Black Americans who have long suffered from racial discrimination. However, the method used to implement it has been unjust and discriminatory, as it focuses on surface-level characteristics rather than individuals’ true abilities and talents.
While the goal of affirmative action is noble, it fails to consider the fact that poverty and hardship exist among Americans of all races. In fact, a larger number of white Americans are living in poverty compared to Black Americans. It is unfair that white Americans often receive preferential treatment and better opportunities for higher salaries.
Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge the struggles faced by working-class white citizens who were left jobless due to technological advancements and lack of support from political parties. These individuals often feel marginalized and have faced derogatory labels from politicians, such as being called a basket of deplorables or semi-fascists. This only widens the divide and hinders progress toward a united society.
The events of January 6, 2021, saw a small group of Trump supporters participating in a violent act at the Capitol. However, it is crucial to remember that millions of Americans peacefully voted for him and should not be lumped together with the actions of a few. Similarly, the Black Lives Matter movement witnessed both peaceful protests and riots. It is unfair to generalize an entire movement based on the actions of a few individuals.
When it comes to affirmative action, some argue that it has led to an increase in the number of Black professionals, such as lawyers, engineers, and doctors. However, progress seems to have slowed down in recent years, despite the emergence of a Black middle class, increased college attendance, and more wealth among Black Americans. One of the major disruptions is the breakdown of traditional family structures, affecting both white and Black Americans. Public schools have also failed to deliver quality education, although there is now a greater emphasis on improving literacy skills and school choice.
An often overlooked group in the affirmative action debate is Asian Americans. They are currently the most educated and wealthiest ethnic group in the country. Yet, even they have faced discrimination under affirmative action policies. As doors continue to open for all races, it is important to ensure that fairness, equality, and unity prevail.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s decision to address the discriminatory practices in college admissions is a step towards a fairer society. While the intent behind affirmative action is admirable, its implementation has fallen short in promoting true equality and justice. It is crucial for Americans to come together, regardless of their race, to build a society that values and uplifts all individuals based on their merits and talents.
