Affirmative Action - AP Government and Politics

Gratz v. Bollinger (2003). Challenged mechanical point-based affirmative action systems.

A criterion for evaluating the constitutionality of affirmative action. Government must prove important societal need for race-conscious policies.

Race cannot be used as the sole criterion for school assignments. Race alone insufficient justification for student assignment policies.

It applied strict scrutiny to federal affirmative action programs. Established consistent constitutional standard for all affirmative action.

Discrimination against majority groups due to affirmative action. When affirmative action allegedly disadvantages majority group members.

States can ban affirmative action policies via voter initiatives. States have authority to ban affirmative action through democratic process.

It promotes diversity and equality in education and employment. Benefits extend beyond minorities to create enriched learning environments.

Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978). Allowed race as a factor in admissions but banned racial quotas.

The theory that affirmative action places students in environments too competitive for them. Claims affirmative action harms intended beneficiaries academically.

Sufficient minority representation to ensure diverse perspectives. Minimum enrollment needed to realize diversity's educational benefits.

Executive Order 10925, signed by President Kennedy in 1961. Required federal contractors to ensure equal employment opportunity.

Affirmative action policies must be specifically designed to achieve diversity. Policies must be carefully crafted to achieve stated goals minimally.

Policies that promote opportunities for historically marginalized groups. Designed to address historical discrimination and level the playing field.

Socioeconomic-based admissions policies. Focuses on economic disadvantage rather than racial identity.

It upheld affirmative action in private sector employment. Allowed voluntary affirmative action programs in private employment.

The argument that diversity benefits all students in educational settings. Justifies affirmative action based on educational benefits for all.

It undermines meritocracy by prioritizing race over qualifications. Argues race-based preferences ignore individual merit and achievement.

It requires government contractors to take affirmative action. Applied affirmative action requirements to companies receiving federal contracts.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964. Prohibited discrimination in employment and public accommodations.

Evaluating applicants based on a wide range of factors, including race. Comprehensive assessment considering multiple aspects of applicant background.

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). Monitors federal contractor compliance with affirmative action requirements.

To rectify past discrimination and promote diversity. Addresses systemic inequalities through proactive measures.

To enforce federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Federal agency investigating and remedying workplace discrimination.

President Lyndon B. Johnson. Major civil rights legislation prohibiting various forms of discrimination.

Preference in admissions given to relatives of alumni. Traditional preference system benefiting children of graduates.

To increase minority representation in higher education institutions. Aims to diversify student bodies and expand educational access.

A judicial review standard for assessing affirmative action policies. Highest level of constitutional review for race-based policies.

Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978). Ruled racial quotas violate equal protection clause.

A fixed number or percentage of opportunities reserved for minorities. Struck down in Bakke as unconstitutional racial preferences.