In institutions of higher education, affirmative action refers to admission policies that provide access to education for those groups that have been historically excluded or underrepresented, such as women and minorities. Since its controversial implementation, affirmative action policies have been a hot topic at the state and federal level. The Supreme Court has heard at least seven cases regarding affirmative action. Supporters claim that affirmative action creates diversity in our education system and helps desegregate society. Opponents to affirmative action say that the policy violates equal treatment under the law, and limits college admission based on academic achievement. What are your thoughts? Should colleges use race as a deciding factor for admissions?

Reference Video:

Point (Yes): Why we still need affirmative action (Toure, Time Magazine)

Counterpoint (No): The end of affirmative action (Victor Hanson, Chicago Tribune)

Reference: Affirmative Action Supreme Court Cases