Ricci v. DeStefano

Following is the case brief for Ricci v. DeStefano, 129 S. Ct. 2658 (2009) Case Summary of Ricci v. DeStefano: The New Haven, CT Fire Department held an exam for firefighter promotions.  The exam resulted in white candidates significantly outperforming minority candidates. Facing potential lawsuits from both sides, New Haven refused to certify the exam results.  That decision meant that qualified […]

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Reverse Discrimination

Reverse discrimination refers to discrimination against members of an historically majority, or “advantaged,” group. The term grew in popular use in the U.S. in the late 20th century, as legislation required special emphasis be put on offering advantages to minority populations, such as women, blacks and Hispanics, and the disabled. This legislative policy is referred to as “affirmative action.” To […]

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Affirmative Action

Affirmative action refers to a set of procedures implemented for the purpose of eliminating discrimination in educational and employment opportunities. Amounting to “positive discrimination,” the policy creates favor toward members of disadvantaged groups believed to have suffered discrimination in society. Affirmative action is the result of President John F. Kennedy’s 1961 executive order requiring government employers and contractors to “take […]

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