What does affirmative action aim to achieve?

Affirmative action aims to achieve the incorporation of race, gender, and other minority status factors in admissions and hiring processes to promote increased diversity and rectify historical inequalities. This policy is designed to create opportunities for underrepresented groups and provide a more equitable playing field in educational and employment contexts. By considering these factors, affirmative action seeks to address systemic discrimination and enhance representation in various fields.

This approach acknowledges that traditional practices may not adequately account for past injustices or current disparities, thus advocating for a more active role in promoting diversity. The goal is not simply to treat all candidates identically, which might perpetuate existing inequities, but to recognize and work against the barriers faced by certain groups.