The facts behind MCRI and controversial Prop. 2
Sonya Mays and Grace Lee, JD MBAs
Issue date: 11/6/06 Section: Election 2006
- Page 1 of 2 next >
Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 7, Michigan voters will decide the fate of state affirmative action programs. Proposal 06-2, more commonly known as the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative (MCRI), is a ballot proposal that, if passed, would bar state and local agencies and state-funded educational institutions from implementing policies that give special consideration to individuals based on their race, gender, ethnicity, or national origin.
MCRI, which also refers to the primary political coalition responsible for placing the state constitutional amendment on the ballot, was organized and primarily funded by Ward Connerly. Ten years ago, Connerly, a California businessman, successfully chaired the campaign for and drafted Proposition 209, which amended the California Constitution to bar affirmative action in education, employment, and contracting for all California state institutions. MCRI is also heavily supported by Jennifer Gratz, who successfully challenged the University of Michigan's undergraduate admission system in the 1990s. MCRI supporters, including Gratz and Connerly, argue that affirmative action policies are discriminatory and that society should treat all individuals the same regardless of race or gender.
In contrast, MCRI opponents argue that affirmative action policies are necessary to "even the playing field" for women and minorities. Additionally, opponents argue that by not allowing Michigan universities and colleges to practice affirmative action, student diversity would be greatly reduced, which would worsen the overall educational experience of all students. Under this line of argument, ethnic and gender diversity improves education by sharpening students' critical thinking skills and exposing them to new ideas and perspectives. This position has also found strong support in corporate America; businesses are particularly interested in hiring graduates educated in diverse settings because of their ability to better consider multiple perspectives.
MCRI, which also refers to the primary political coalition responsible for placing the state constitutional amendment on the ballot, was organized and primarily funded by Ward Connerly. Ten years ago, Connerly, a California businessman, successfully chaired the campaign for and drafted Proposition 209, which amended the California Constitution to bar affirmative action in education, employment, and contracting for all California state institutions. MCRI is also heavily supported by Jennifer Gratz, who successfully challenged the University of Michigan's undergraduate admission system in the 1990s. MCRI supporters, including Gratz and Connerly, argue that affirmative action policies are discriminatory and that society should treat all individuals the same regardless of race or gender.
In contrast, MCRI opponents argue that affirmative action policies are necessary to "even the playing field" for women and minorities. Additionally, opponents argue that by not allowing Michigan universities and colleges to practice affirmative action, student diversity would be greatly reduced, which would worsen the overall educational experience of all students. Under this line of argument, ethnic and gender diversity improves education by sharpening students' critical thinking skills and exposing them to new ideas and perspectives. This position has also found strong support in corporate America; businesses are particularly interested in hiring graduates educated in diverse settings because of their ability to better consider multiple perspectives.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
miker
Mike R. Hill
posted 11/13/06 @ 9:31 AM EST
Thanks for the even-handed and factual approach to the topic. Frankly, your article is a model for unbiased journalism.
My opinion is just that. I believe that understanding is the key to effective decision-making. (Continued…)
Post a Comment