Racism and Life Chances

Racism is a clear reality in our society that affects all people. Although it's often racism continues to shatter and destroy lives. American remains burdened by a racial chasm ("Race in America"Ð'...n. pag.). Racial discrimination is an ongoing human judgment that U.S. citizens can't really stop. The life chances and opportunities of people of color in the United States are limited as compared to whites ("Race In America"Ð'...n.pag.). The legacy of historic discrimination continues to weigh on the present; and current day discrimination persists throughout American life-in access to healthcare, educational services, employment opportunities, wage levels, capital, the criminal justice system, and media employment ("Race In America"Ð'...n.pag.). Racism, as George Frederickson puts it, is difference plus power ("Racism"Ð'...n.pag.). All forms of racism suppose, on George M. Frederickson's conception, that the differences between races mean that they cannot coexist in one society on terms of equality ("Racism"Ð'...n.pag.). This information is important because it allows us to further understand the history of racial discrimination, and why it happens. Racial discrimination is a problem affecting young minority teens today because it affect's their self

If one is to discuss and problem solve an issue, he or she must first know what the issue is truly about. Affirmative action is defined as the equal opportunities given to women, minorities, and small groups so they will have the same tools, education, and allotment to achieve their goals in life. Since affirmative action came about, debate arises daily about if it is truly equal and fair. Was it a word made as a cushion to the people so they will feel equal? Another interpretation is did this word actually make the white male group less important and unequal to the minority group, doing more harm to others than good. Affirmative action is not used unequally in the world, but in actuality if it was not for it these people would have nothing. Julie A. Mertus supports the need for opportunities given to women in the work force. In the work force today many women are overlooked and pushed aside because of their gender. Many of the big wigs in businesses today feel that a woman is inferior to a man's intelligence of work skill trades. A woman can simply not handle the stress on the body or

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