affirmative action

Despite the fact that I didn't know this particular term until about two weeks ago, I think affirmative action is an interesting and essential part of American politics today.
While the term "affirmative action" was not coined until the 1960s, I do think that the idea of equality for all Americans - whether they are minorities or not - has been a central facet of American political ideology since the Declaration of Independence. Ideologically, then, I see affirmative action as an essential way of creating opportunities for those who are disadvantaged in education and in the workplace as well as allowing for social equality for all Americans, especially in light of the fact that the United States is set to reach a minority majority by the mid-21st century.
Yet at the same time, intellectually I do see the side of conservative standpoints on the issue - it cannot be denied that there are instances in which affirmative action legislation can undermine the achievements of minority citizens and encourage people to identify with that particular minority rather than their achievements or qualifications for a position.
Overall then, I see both sides as an interesting debate, though in practice I will most likely always support the use of affirmative action legislation.