Ward Connerly

In the following viewpoint, Ward Connerly argues that affirmative action, originally intended to provide equal opportunity for people of color and women, instead led to quotas and preferential treatment. He asserts that affirmative action is an outdated policy that does not allow individuals to advance by merit regardless of their race or gender and that has in some cases increased racial tensions. In Connerly’s opinion, eliminating affirmative action is the best way to promote equal opportunity for all members of society. Connerly, a University of California regent, was the chairman of the campaign for the California Civil Rights Initiative, a successful 1996 ballot measure designed to end state-sanctioned affirmative action.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In Connerly’s opinion, what were some of the positive aspects of affirmative...