The Unspoken Demand for Affirmative Action Among Asian-Americans: Why College and High School Admissions Remain Complicated
Why don't more Asian-Americans publicly call for affirmative action in high school and college admissions to end what they perceive as systemic inequities? The answer lies in a complex web of social, economic, and psychological factors, often driven by their unique experiences and the inherent benefits they currently enjoy within the existing system.
Understanding Affirmative Action and its Impact
Historically, affirmative action has been a contentious issue, with legal and social implications that extend beyond higher education. It is based on a speech by President John F. Kennedy, eventually leading to the establishment of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 1965. The EEOC enforces laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person's race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The concept is about ensuring that discrimination cannot happen through the implementation of positive measures like recruitment, hiring, and promotional practices.
However, the theory of affirmative action does not necessarily align with its practical application, especially when it comes to Asian-Americans. While it is in theory designed to help underrepresented groups, it often results in overrepresentation of certain communities, such as Asian students, in educational institutions. This creates a paradoxical situation where individuals who may benefit from affirmative action policies are unaware or uninterested in vocal support for the system that benefits them.
The Plight of Asian-Americans in Higher Education
High schools have their own equity policies, but affirmative action as a special measure was struck down in many regions, particularly in California. When affirmative action ceased to be a requirement in top institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, the proportion of Asian students increased. However, this did not solve the problems associated with higher representation, as the decline in perceived prestige of the university also followed suit. The key factor in choosing a school remains the desirability of its student body, which reflects the most privileged group in the population.
The concept of meritocracy is often critiqued for benefiting the already privileged at the expense of underrepresented minorities. Yet, the reality is that some Asian-Americans are too aware of these benefits to risk losing them. The douchebaggery of White Americans (as they perceive it) is a significant factor; many Asian-Americans realize that they are used as a tool by those who want to maintain a predominantly white educational and workforce environment.
Workplace Discrimination and the Bamboo Ceiling
Beyond the academic sphere, Asian-Americans face unique challenges in the workforce. The bamboo ceiling, a term used to describe the invisible barriers that prevent Asian-Americans from reaching upper-level management positions, is a telltale sign of ongoing inequities. Research has shown that Asian-Americans experience higher rates of workplace discrimination and lower salaries compared to their counterparts in other racial groups for identical positions. Employers are mandated by law to implement affirmative action to ensure fair treatment, but the enforcement often falls short.
The EEOC has struggled to increase representation of Asian-Americans in high-level positions, despite significant strides in the proportion of females, African Americans, and Hispanics. This disparity suggests that affirmative action policies are weighted in favor of other demographics, leaving Asian-Americans still at a disadvantage.
The Lack of Socioeconomic Focus in Affirmative Action
Why is affirmative action not based on socioeconomic factors? There are two primary reasons: Firstly, it is not within the purview of the EEOC, meaning employers and educational institutions have no financial incentive to implement such a policy. Secondly, it would necessitate new legislation that could polarize Congress and be difficult to pass. This political reality further complicates the implementation of a more equitable affirmative action framework.
As an Asian-American who has navigated these challenges, I still believe in the importance of affirmative action. It is imperative not just for the benefits it provides but also for the challenges it presents. If it is difficult to get into top schools, I am prepared to study more. If it is hard for Asians to ascend to top management, I am ready to work harder. The support of affirmative action is not merely about benefitting from it but about resilience and self-improvement.
In conclusion, the unspoken demand for affirmative action among Asian-Americans reflects a complex intersection of personal experience, systemic benefits, and the ongoing struggle for social equity. While the theory behind affirmative action is sound, its practical implementation faces numerous challenges that must be addressed to ensure true inclusivity and fairness.