Affirmative action policies are policies aimed at equalizing the effects of historical discrimination against minority groups and women. The concept was first articulated in Executive Order No. 10925, issued by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, which required that government contractors “take affirmative action” to treat applicants and employees without discrimination based on race. The intent was to express governmental commitment to ensuring equal opportunity for all and belief that utilizing all available manpower is in the best interest of the United States. Affirmative action started in the area of awarding government contracts but was extended to other state and federal agencies, including colleges and universities, giving preference to minorities and women in the areas of education and employment.

This entry is an overview of race ...