MCRI does not eliminate affirmative action

In “Stop complaining: Register to vote”, you misrepresented the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative. Your editorial could lead a voter to believe the MCRI eliminates affirmative action. It doesn’t.

As the ballot language clearly states, the MCRI will “ban affirmative action programs THAT GIVE PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT.” The initiative will prohibit the bonus points and behind-the-scenes quota systems that get used by government agencies for university admissions, public employment, and public contracting. It will not prohibit outreach programs that can be used to increase the involvement of underrepresented minorities.

For evidence, just turn to California. Ten years after passing its version of the MCRI, universities, municipalities and state agencies still have affirmative action programs.

The MCRI prevents government employees from picking winners and losers based on color, race, or gender. The MCRI restores the fairness that comes from evaluating individuals on merit. MSU students who believe in equality should vote yes on Proposal 2.

[Letter to the Editor - The State News. Submitted 09/20/2006.]