MCRI opponents redefine racism

Erik Green reveals how affirmative action has become twisted over the years. Once, affirmative action was seen as expanding opportunities for minorities by reaching out. Today, it has become a system of quotas and set-asides.

This transformation is not surprising when we look how Green redefines related concepts. He claims proponents of a color-blind society are racists because “we [want] to ignore racial differences and treat everyone the same.” I always thought racists promoted differences and favored preferential treatment for one race over another. Apparently the “new” racism reverses the meaning.

Unfortunately, Green doesn’t stop at redefining racism. He proceeds to claim that state institutions have the “right” to treat people differently based on their race. I thought this issue had been decided decades ago by Brown v. Board of Education and the Civil Rights Act.

Finally, Green is wrong when he says that MCRI supporters are seeking to “white-wash” society and ignore racial inequities. Many of us recognize discrimination still exists. However, we believe discrimination cannot be overcome with more discrimination. If Green wants to know who is perpetuating racial inequalities, I suggest he look in a mirror.

[Letter to the Editor - The State News. Published 03/22/2006]