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July 19, 1995

Affirmative Action - Mend, Don't End.

Note: While I prefer to avoid US-centric topics in these commentaries, I believe the underlying principals in this issue apply to a larger scope of people - and have chosen to make an exception in this case.

Despite the oversimplification of the Amend, Don't End jingle, I agree with President Clinton's position on this issue:

• Eliminate quotas, in law and practice.
• End preference for under-qualified candidates.
• Retire programs that no longer serve to correct historical discrimination.
• Employ affirmatively among those that qualify for a position.

As a Republican, I resent the stance taken by many candidates in my party that: discrimation has been eliminated in the workplace, or that affirmative action is inherently bad for business.

Obviously, women and minorities remain under-represented in certain fields and positions in the US. It should also be clear to businesses that their companies benefit by ensuring the makeup of their employees and policy-makers reflects that of their community and clientele.

On the other hand, traditional Democratic lawmakers have sought to eliminate discrimination by forcing a practice of quotas, which gave the appearance (if not the act) of employing under-qualified people over those better suited for a position. This causes resentment in those not hired/promoted, and calls into doubt the abilities of women and minorities that are selected.

The President's position addresses the concerns of both the discriminated and of employers, in a practical way.

• Clearly document the qualifications for all open positions; be able to justify those requirements.
• Make those openings and requirements known to all who might qualify.
• Determine whether there exists a gender/age/class/race/orientation imbalance (as measured by the business's community/clientele) within the particular organization in which this position belongs.
• After eliminating all who do not qualify for the position, preference may be used to correct any employment imbalance that may exist.
• Federal agencies should be mandated to correct imbalances; private sector business should be encouraged to correct these imbalances.

There is no need to force businesses to hire affirmatively; once women and minorities are able to break the initial barriers, competition will favor those businesses whose employment reflects their community and customers.