A Clear Distinction: A Reactionary Response to "...Diversity Benefits Our Communities"

Jonathan Reifman
ASA 2  Section 2
Week 3

     
     In their Joint Policy Report on affirmative action, a coalition of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) education groups makes their argument for the support of affirmative action in the college system. Referencing studies that show that, despite the Asian American communities title of 'Model Minority,' there are many Asian American ethnic groups that are actually at a disadvantage in terms of socioeconomic status. The AAPI groups go on to argue that diversity in the university is beneficial not only to the Asian American groups that are directly assisted through it, but also to the entire college community.
     All in all, I believe that affirmative action based on socioeconomic merit is warranted, I believe, however, that universities should allow applicants the opportunity to argue their socioeconomic disadvantage as a way to differentiate themselves, instead of the university assuming a disadvantage already existed.

Question: What criteria do universities use to apply the concept of affirmative action in their decisions on acceptance?

Image: Students advocating for affirmative action.