Recipients of Prop. 209 dismiss successors

Since the passing of Proposition 209, episodes of racism and sexism have reared their ugly heads almost immediately after a majority voted to wipe out affirmative action policies on the state level.

The lid on the Texaco scandal blew its cover last week. That case involved the possible destruction of documents sought by plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the company. The plaintiffs, who claim to have been passed over for promotions, are black.

Incidents of racism in the workplace are common and still exist, even today.

Yet, there is a portion of black Californians who voted to pass the proposition.

Then there was the light shown on the ugly circumstances surrounding new recruits at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.

The is case being leveled against two drill sergeants who threatened and sexually assaulted several of the recruits.

All of those new recruits are women.

Women were supporters of Prop. 209 also.

In fact, one group that voted largely in favor of the initiative were conservative, white women.

The percentage of black and Hispanic voters in favor of the initiative was not as high but they were substantial. The Associated Press reported that three in 10 blacks and a third of Hispanic voted yes.

It is ironic that the one of the largest benefactors of affirmative action programs and policies have been white women.

In addition, blacks and Hispanics have been able to see advancements in the professional world since affirmative action was enacted.

The interesting fact about the Associated Press report was that many of the benefactors of affirmative action that voted to wipe it out were more affluent members of these groups.

The group of women who pushed hardest for the measure to pass are not only conservative and more wealthy but are 45 years and older.

Therefore, the message that is being sent by these groups is "Now that we have gotten the chance to put our foot in the door, we no longer need help."

Essentially, prosperous women, blacks and Hispanics are slamming the door shut.

Though it may be true that these professionals no longer need the "handout," the aspiring professionals need affirmative action to make sure they get the opportunity to prove their worth.