I think this discussion about the Rooney rule is very interesting because it seems like nobody was against this, whereas some people in the class were against affirmative action/quotas. I also agree that the Rooney rule is a positive rule that “levels the playing field” for minorities who may not otherwise have an opportunity. As Chris mentioned in class, something like 78% of players in the NFL are minorities, with very few in higher positions. These figures show that there is discrimination in the league because you know these minorities are good players, yet aren’t being represented in higher positions. I don’t see how people could be opposed to this rule because they’re not being forced to hire them, only give them a chance. I don’t see how giving people a chance could be something negative because as mentioned in class, a few minorities were hired because of this rule, who otherwise may not have even had an interview. I also agree that this is a positive side of affirmative action that should be implemented in other job positions in society. I think people would benefit from having to give minorities a chance because people who normally discriminate would be required to give them an opportunity, and hopefully change their views. It seems like a small step in the right direction to try and get rid of discrimination in the hiring world. Even though some people may interview candidates just to meet the requirement, it seems like it’s a way to start “leveling the playing field” so everybody can have an equal chance.
Laura Kalinowski Post 17
I wonder if, as a general rule, people are more likely to support affirmative action policies they see as benefiting them, either directly or indirectly. For example, with the Rooney Rule, are those of us who enjoy sport more likely to endorse this particular affirmative action policy over others because we view it as benefiting us in that it improves the nature of football? Several members of class have stated they are wary of affirmative action policies for Civil Service occupations because they have family members who are in law enforcement. However, if we look at the bigger picture outside of benefits directly given to ourselves and our families, does not diversity on a structural/institution level benefit society as a whole, and thereby benefit us? When considering the larger picture, does not affirmative action benefit society as a whole? I would love to hear some others responses to Laura's observations.
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