Finally, it is important to note that even though biases may be unconscious, unintentional and subtle, that does not mean that bias is inevitable or immutable. Significant changes can occur in individuals and in society. Expressed racial attitudes have changed dramatically since the civil rights legislation 30 years ago. The personal, social and economic well-being of Blacks, women and other traditionally disadvantaged groups have improved since the advent of affirmative action. We should not delude ourselves, however, that equality has been achieved, that equity is now guaranteed or that we are a society beyond bias.
Racism still needs to be combatted actively and self-consciously.
Good intentions alone are not sufficient to guarantee equality. Affirmative action is far from perfect and how it is implemented needs to be reexamined critically and carefully, but it is still needed.