| the encouragement of increased representation of women and minority-group members, esp. in employment. |
| affirmative action n. A policy or a program that seeks to redress past discrimination through active measures to ensure equal opportunity, as in education and employment. |
A term referring to various government policies that aim to increase the proportion of African-Americans, women, and other minorities in jobs and educational institutions historically dominated by white men. The policies usually require employers and institutions to set goals for hiring or admitting minorities.
Note: Affirmative action has been extremely controversial. Supporters maintain that it is the only way to overcome the effects of past discrimination and promote integration. Critics dismiss it as “reverse discrimination,” denying opportunities to qualified whites and men. (See Bakke decision).
