WOMEN & AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
“Advocates for affirmative action do not slight the value of merit, but do disagree that merit alone should determine the distribution of entry-level opportunity. According to its advocates, affirmative action is necessary to ensure that people with power over hiring and admissions do not disregard the merits of white women and people of color. Advocates also want to expand the meaning of merit to include the way life’s struggles - against sexism and racism - modulate ability and enrich each individual’s contribution to her job, school or community.”
Source: WH