The Debate Surrounding Affirmative Action and Its Impact on Black Communities

Introduction

The concept of affirmative action has been a subject of intense debate for decades, particularly in relation to its impact on black communities. While some argue that it is necessary for a more equitable society, others contend that it perpetuates racism and inequality. This article aims to explore these perspectives and understand why black people still care about affirmative action, despite attempts to eliminate it.

Human Rights Movements and the Evolution of Affirmative Action

The increase in human rights movements and awareness has played a significant role in the evolution of affirmative action policies. With a heightened focus on race and equality, previous norms and standards, such as the original casting of characters like Ariel in the film The Little Mermaid, have faced scrutiny. Nowadays, any racial changes or swaps can lead to intense backlash, even if the change is minor or seemingly unrelated to the character.

For instance, the casting of a Black mermaid in the Big Hero 6 has been met with criticism, whereas the casting of a dark-skinned Cinderella met with no such backlash. This disparity highlights the inconsistency in how race is perceived and treated in such scenarios, even within the same franchise. A further example is the widespread criticism faced by a K-pop idol when he said the word "nigga," a term often used between Black friends, indicating the intricacies involved in these debates.

Perceived Racism and Affirmative Action

The question of racial sensitivity and the hypersensitivity of some segments of society are also central to the debate. A recent incident involving a white woman shooting a black man as self-defense, with black people bashing her, despite the context, demonstrates the stark double standards that exist in such scenarios. This highlights the tendency of some to invalidate one's perspective simply because it challenges their beliefs or actions.

In these situations, the phrase "Just because of skin color" is often used to dismiss valid concerns and experiences. This is further compounded by the notion that speaking up against certain racial practices can result in social and professional isolation. Consequently, many in the black community feel compelled to conform to the prevailing opinion, fearing backlash or discrimination.

The Necessity and Duration of Affirmative Action

While the notion of affirmative action is largely pegged on the idea of equity and opportunity, the question of its duration and applicability is often debated. Given that black people in the United States have faced systemic discrimination for over 400 years, it is argued that affirmative action should continue for the same period to redress those historical injustices.

Moreover, the impact of affirmative action policies in different regions—such as Europe, America, and Asia—demonstrates the need for tailored approaches to address specific challenges. In societies where opportunities have historically been more accessible, the need for such policies diminishes. However, for regions where affirmative action has been systematically ignored or less stringent, the need for it remains.

Enduring Discrimination and Universal Truth

The universality of discrimination and its manifestations in various forms and contexts emphasizes the importance of addressing it through legislation and social awareness. Affirmative action policies serve as a tool not only for black communities but also for communities that have historically faced discrimination of any kind.

Ultimately, achieving a more equitable and just society requires a sustained effort to understand, acknowledge, and address these issues. It is crucial to recognize that while some may argue against affirmative action, its existence and impact are driven by the ongoing struggle against systemic inequalities and the desire for a more inclusive and fair society.

Note: The term "affirmative action" is a critical point of discussion in the context of race and opportunity, and its application and duration should be carefully considered to ensure fairness and equity for all.