affirmative action


noun

the encouragement of increased representation of women and minority-group members, especially in employment.

Origin of affirmative action

First recorded in 1960–65

OTHER WORDS FROM affirmative action

af·firm·a·tive-ac·tion, adjective

Words nearby affirmative action

Example sentences from the Web for affirmative action

British Dictionary definitions for affirmative action

affirmative action

noun

US a policy or programme designed to counter discrimination against minority groups and women in areas such as employment and education Brit equivalent: positive discrimination

Cultural definitions for affirmative action

affirmative action

A term referring to various government policies that aim to increase the proportion of African-Americans, women, and other minorities in jobs and educational institutions historically dominated by white men. The policies usually require employers and institutions to set goals for hiring or admitting minorities.

notes for affirmative action

Affirmative action has been extremely controversial. Supporters maintain that it is the only way to overcome the effects of past discrimination and promote integration. Critics dismiss it as “reverse discrimination,” denying opportunities to qualified whites and men. ( See Bakke decision).