Reflections on Affirmative Action: A Blessing and a Curse

Have you ever been affected positively or negatively by Affirmative Action? While some argue that affirmative action has enriched their experiences and provided needed opportunities, others like me have been let down and even screwed by the system. In my case, my positive experience was indirect, as some of my fellow college students came due to affirmative action policies. These policies have enriched the diversity of our experiences and brought different perspectives into our academic circle.

My Journey with Affirmative Action

When I was just 10 years old, my parents made it part of my Saturday task to clean the jewelry store they owned as a family business. After high school, I switched to a 4-4 schedule, working full days at school and then cleaning the store on Saturdays. Post-graduation, I had a plan to work for myself. However, the reality of the job market proved to be quite different.

I tried to find employment in various parts of LAX airport and industrial areas. What I encountered was often discriminatory and condescending. Employers would prioritize hiring based on ethnicity and gender, often dismissing my application even before they reviewed it. The phrase 'we need to hire minorities' or 'women only' was a recurring issue. Such discrimination left me feeling frustrated and confused. I was told I had to go back to the family business, a path I had hoped to leave behind due to the low pay and the uptight demeanor of the family.

The Aftermath: A Life of Disappointment

I worked at my family's business for 40 years, a job that I deeply hated. Even after my parents’ passing, my sibling took 90% of the store's money and goods. This betrayal was the final straw. In essence, I spent my entire working life contributing to a business that then treated me unjustly. It is a bitter reminder of the real-world impact of having to work for a family business, even when one has other aspirations.

Reflections on California Liberalism and White Privilege

The situation made me question the narrative around California liberalism and White privilege. I could not help but feel let down by the state's policies and the family’s rigid views. After 62 years, I still feel the sting of inequality and discrimination. The question remains—when will I finally get my turn to succeed, free from systemic barriers?

Conclusion

Affirmative action policies aim to level the playing field and provide opportunities to underrepresented groups. However, personal experiences show that these policies can be both a blessing and a curse. While some may benefit from new opportunities and diverse experiences, others might face systemic barriers and disappointment. The road to true equality remains long and filled with challenges.