We have heard the argument that minorities cannot get ahead without the assistance that affirmative action gives them, because America has not changed much since the days of slavery and of segregation. But America has changed a lot since those dark days. What has happened since the 1960s and the Civil Rights Act is that programs that were designed to give oppressed groups a helping hand as a means of getting ahead has become an end in and of itself. Yet we must address the reason why people believe otherwise. Their perceptions are just as important as the truth.
People see and believe what they want.
I don't claim to have all the answers, but the solutions laid out above are steps in the right direction. Working together, honestly and in good faith, will bring us closer to our goal. Use this form to find your local paper's email address and recommend this columnist. Member Groups 60 Plus Assocation Accuracy in Academia Accuracy in Media Acton Institute Agape Press American Conservative Union Amer. World Magazine Yorktown University Young America's Foundation Issues Library Budget and Tax Culture and Family Defense Budget Education Environment Foreign Policy Government Reform Health and Science Internet and Tech.