Affirmative Action for Older Workers: A Necessity in a Diverse Workforce

Should there be affirmative action for older people? This question is a topic of vigorous debate as societal norms and workplace cultures evolve. While affirmative action focuses on promoting equality and diversity, it is often misused in college admissions. However, the need for affirmative action in the realm of employment is increasingly relevant, particularly for older workers.

Understanding Affirmative Action in Employment

Just as it is unjust to discriminate against someone based on race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation, it is also unjust to discriminate based on age. When hiring and offering housing, a qualified individual should not be denied based on their age. The use of affirmative action is still prevalent in some college admissions, but it does little to protect mature individuals who are making crucial life decisions.

The Case for Affirmative Action for Older Workers

While it is true that older individuals may face biases in the workplace and may require more accommodations, such schemes are not as straightforward as other forms of affirmative action. There is an additional challenge of ageism against younger workers and generational biases, such as against millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the widespread lack of respect and protection for the elderly in society, which can lead to significant biases in hiring practices.

Addressing Real Concerns for Older Workers

There are valid concerns surrounding the hiring of older workers. For instance, investing in their training may be less rewarding due to their limited time in the workforce and reduced neuroplasticity. They might need accommodations, work at a slower pace, and have medical issues that affect attendance. Additionally, they may not be as up-to-date with modern technology and prefer more stable work schedules due to family or health commitments.

However, affirmative action schemes are designed to break through these biases and provide older workers with a fair chance. Milder forms of affirmative action, which focus on improving diversity, encourage companies to step out of their comfort zones and consider the unique value that older workers can bring. Many older workers possess a wealth of life experience and wisdom, as well as a strong work ethic.

For example, an older worker might have a stable corporate culture and consistent attendance, or they may possess technical knowledge that younger workers lack. Even their apparent disadvantages, such as needing less time off for family commitments, can be seen as significant advantages in the workplace.

Benefits of Older Workers

Older workers often have life experience and can solve legacy tech problems more effectively. They can bring a different perspective to the table, especially in engineering, where an elderly worker might possess critical knowledge that young workers are missing. This can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of systems and processes, which can be invaluable to a company.

Despite potential challenges, older workers bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. They can provide mentorship, bring stability to a workplace, and challenge younger workers' biases. Companies that resist hiring older workers are likely missing out on valuable contributions.

Creating Fair Employment Guidelines

To address these issues, there is a need to expand the protected classes for affirmative action, especially on government contracts, to include age. Additionally, companies should include age in their diversity goals and ensure they are not unfairly pushing out older workers.

By implementing these changes, we can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace where all workers, regardless of age, are given a fair chance to contribute their skills and knowledge.

Empowering older workers is a necessary step towards a more inclusive and equitable society. It not only benefits the workers themselves but also enriches the work environment and drives innovation. Let us embrace the value that older workers bring and work towards a workplace that truly values diversity and inclusion.