AFFIRMATIVE ACTION Meaning and
Definition
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Affirmative action is a policy or program that aims to address historical inequalities and promote equal opportunities for historically marginalized and underrepresented groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities.
Typically implemented by governments, educational institutions, or private organizations, affirmative action seeks to counteract the effects of past discrimination and systemic biases by providing preferential treatment or consideration to members of these disadvantaged groups in areas like employment, education, and business contracts.
The goals of affirmative action include promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by ensuring that individuals from underrepresented backgrounds have a fair chance at opportunities and advancement. Proponents argue that affirmative action measures prevent ongoing discrimination, correct imbalances in society, and foster social progress by dismantling systemic barriers.
However, affirmative action has been a subject of intense debate and controversy. Critics argue that it can lead to reverse discrimination, as it may disadvantage individuals from non-targeted groups who may be just as qualified. They assert that merit should be the sole determining factor in accessing opportunities and that affirmative action may perpetuate division and resentment.
The implementation and extent of affirmative action policies vary across regions and countries, with some adopting strict quotas, while others emphasize outreach, mentorship, or financial support programs to promote equal opportunities and inclusion.
Common Misspellings for AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
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Etymology of AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
The term "affirmative action" originated in the United States in the 1960s and gained widespread usage following President John F. Kennedy's Executive Order 10925 in 1961. However, its etymology goes beyond this specific phrase.
The word "affirmative" derives from the Latin word "affirmare", which means "to make firm" or "to confirm". In English, "affirmative" denotes agreement or positive action.
The word "action" comes from the Latin word "actio", meaning "a doing" or "a deed".
When combined, "affirmative action" refers to policies and practices aimed at promoting equal opportunities for historically marginalized groups, most notably in areas such as education, employment, and business.
The term itself is closely associated with efforts to address historical inequalities and discrimination, specifically focused on racial and gender disparities.
Idioms with the word AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
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affirmative action
Affirmative action is a policy or program that seeks to correct past discrimination against certain groups by giving them preferential treatment in hiring, promotion, admissions, etc.
Similar spelling words for AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
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