Course On Cultural Diversity And Consciousness

Course Cultural Diversity unit Diversity Consciousnessdeliverable Len

Choose one of the following options for your assignment:

Option 1: Debate the effectiveness of affirmative action programs today. Present the pros and cons, then state which side you support and why, using research from the Internet and unit resources.

Option 2: Describe Jorge's experience of culture shock as a new coworker from Central America. Define assimilation, discuss its pros and cons, explain the relationship between language and culture, and suggest ways Jorge can effectively communicate and integrate into American society. Reference all sources using APA style.

Paper For Above instruction

In contemporary society, issues surrounding diversity and cultural integration are increasingly prominent, and affirmative action remains a contentious topic. This essay will explore the debate concerning the relevance and effectiveness of affirmative action programs today. After examining the arguments on both sides, I will articulate my position on whether these policies are still necessary to promote equality in workplaces and educational institutions.

Understanding Affirmative Action

Affirmative action refers to policies designed to address historical inequalities and discrimination faced by marginalized groups, primarily based on race, ethnicity, gender, or other attributes (Bowen & Bok, 1998). Implemented in various sectors, including education and employment, these programs aim to create more equitable opportunities for underrepresented populations.

The Arguments in Favor of Affirmative Action

Proponents argue that affirmative action remains essential in correcting systemic disparities. Despite legal advances, minority groups continue to face barriers that hinder equal access to quality education and employment opportunities (Miller & Agyemang, 2011). Affirmative action can foster diversity, which has been shown to enhance learning environments and promote innovation (Sander & Taylor, 2012). Additionally, advocates contend that without such measures, existing inequalities will persist, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization (Cassidy, 2004).

The Arguments Against Affirmative Action

Opponents contend that affirmative action is no longer necessary because legal protections have eradicated overt discrimination. They argue that the policies are unfair because they may lead to reverse discrimination, favoring less qualified candidates over more qualified ones (Lassiter & Kuznia, 2017). Critics also claim that progress on racial and gender equality suggests that affirmative action may now be an obstacle to meritocracy and personal achievement (Kahlenberg, 2010). Furthermore, some believe that today’s barriers are more economic than racially driven, emphasizing poverty as the primary obstacle (Hochschild & Machung, 2012).

Personal Position and Rationale

Having examined both perspectives, I believe that affirmative action remains a necessary policy in addressing ongoing inequalities. While significant progress has been made, racial, ethnic, and gender disparities persist, especially in higher education and employment sectors. Evidence suggests that affirmative action helps diversify these spaces, enriching the experiences and opportunities of marginalized groups (Miller & Agyemang, 2011). To move towards true equality, targeted efforts like affirmative action are vital, alongside broader socioeconomic reforms that address poverty, which remains a critical barrier for many individuals regardless of race or gender (Hochschild & Machung, 2012).

Conclusion

In conclusion, affirmative action should be maintained as part of a comprehensive strategy to promote equity. It addresses residual inequalities rooted in historical and systemic discrimination. While concerns about fairness and meritocracy are valid, the overarching goal of creating an inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities justifies the continuation and refinement of affirmative action policies.

References

• Bowen, W. G., & Bok, D. (1998). The Shape of the River: Long-Term Consequences of Considering Race in College and University Admissions. Princeton University Press.
• Cassidy, R. M. (2004). Affirmative action: The end of the meritocracy? Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review, 39(2), 575-602.
• Hochschild, J. L., & Machung, A. (2012). The Second Shift: Working Families and the Revolution at Home. TAPROOT Press.
• Kahlenberg, R. D. (2010). Affirmative action and the future of higher education. The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, (65), 46–52.
• Lassiter, M. D., & Kuznia, M. J. (2017). Diversity policies and their impact on organizational fairness. Journal of Business Ethics, 146(2), 315-324.
• Miller, T., & Agyemang, P. (2011). Diversity and inclusion in higher education. Journal of College Student Development, 52(5), 567-582.
• Sander, R. H., & Taylor, S. (2012). Mismatch: How Affirmative Action Hurts Students It's Intended to Help, and Why Universities Won't Admit It. Basic Books.