"Affirmative action was originally designed to help minorities, but women, especially white women, have made the greatest gains as a result of these programs" (Boston, 1996). Is affirmative action fair? In 1974, a woman named Rose was turned down for a supervisory job in favor of a male. She was told that she was the most qualified person, but the position was going to be filled by a man, because he had a family to support. Five years before that, when Rose was about to fill an entry-level position in banking, a personnel officer outlined the woman's pay scale, which was $25

Affirmative action needs to overcome the disparities of employment that exist in this country. A recent Urban Benchmarks' study found that of 71 metro areas surveyed nationwide, Pittsburgh had the highest rate of employment-related problems among non-Hispanic whites between the ages of 25 and 54 and the sixth highest rate among African Americans in the same age group. The employment outlook for minorities is difficult, but not hopeless. Jobs can be obtained with education and persistence of each individual. "Jobs require more than a high-school diploma, but less than a four-year degree--such as an associate degree or certificate from a vocational or trade school" (Kovatch, 1996). Today employers both private and public require individuals to take a test before entering their place of employment. For example, if one were to apply for a job with Foodland a test for your basic educational skill is required. To become a fireman, policeman, teacher, or Kentucky Fried Chicken employee you are required to take a test before being hired. To further your education you need to take a test to enter a University. Abundant jobs for today are in the technological, computer, and internet areas. The need to be educated is a part of life. In our society there are difficulties with basic education. Affirmative action gives minorities the right to equal education.

Affirmative action is a growing argument among our society. It is multifaceted and very often defined vaguely. Some can define affirmative action as the ability to strive for equality and inclusiveness. Others might see it as a quote-based system for different minority groups. "Affirmative action was originally designed to help minorities" (Gross, 1996). Is affirmative action fair? Affirmative action has become a tool for minorities to use for equality in the business world. Women, African Americans, Hispanics and the like now have a level tool that would support their rights as individuals in the business world. Yes, affirmative action demonstrates fairness. Are minority groups on equal footing? Today, affirmative action is recognized however, the 'glass ceiling' is still there. The glass ceiling refers to "you can see it, but you can't get it". Minorities can reach for the ceiling but still have difficulty actually trying to touch it. Unfortunately affirmative action cannot tell society to behave in a way that would place every individual, every minority group on equal footing. Is gaining employment for minorities difficult? Today, the employment opportunities for minorities has increased. Minorities education is increasi

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Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page double spaced)