I think the debate belongs on a college campus, but also in our homes and boardrooms since this affects hiring practices for all of us too.
I would never have been 'allowed' to study and find a job in the original career of my choice had it not been for affirmative action. That forced people's hands and that first job was hell as a result. Despite qualifications, there is an assumption you got the job because, and only because, of being female. Eventually, though, you prove yourself through accomplishments and results and people forget they had an issue with hiring a woman.
Still, I think far more damage is done at this point than good, unless there is an area where people have to be forced to include completely qualified others. Believe me, men had to be forced to accept women in many fields where as today, there are individuals with biases but not near the level of pervasive industry wide issues. And I have never supported different standards as a means to reach quotas and affirmative action goals. I question if there is any need today for hiring quotas for women.
