Main Discussion Points:

1. Overview of Affirmative Action:

• Explanation of affirmative action as a policy aimed at addressing historical inequalities and promoting diversity.
• Mention of the Michigan case as an example of affirmative action's complexities.

1. Impact on Legacy and Donor Preferences:

• Discussion on how affirmative action policies have evolved and whether they address legacy and donor preferences.
• Highlighting the Michigan case and how points and preferences were given exclusively to certain racial groups.

1. Critique of Approach:

• Critique of how affirmative action policies have been challenged in court, often overlooking reserved points exclusively for whiteness.
• Emphasis on not addressing the institutional racism that created the need for affirmative action.

1. Holistic Admissions Approach:

• Explanation of the shift to holistic admission after 2003, considering the whole student rather than assigning specific points.
• Highlighting Sandra Day O'Connor's prediction about the decline of race-based preferences over time.

1. Affirmative Action in Recent Years:

• Mention of the Fisher case and its connection to Edward Blum's efforts to challenge affirmative action.
• Discussion of the Harvard and University of North Carolina cases involving Asian American plaintiffs.

1. Diversity and Reality of Admissions:

• Examination of diversity statistics in college admissions, including the percentage of Asian and white students.
• Noting the lack of representation for certain minority groups and addressing legacy and donor factors.

1. Myths and Realities of Affirmative Action:

• Debunking myths about affirmative action leading to unqualified individuals getting admitted.
• Explaining the shift to holistic admission and the removal of standardized test requirements.

1. Expanding Affirming Action and Solidarity:

• Discussion about expanding affirmative action to other marginalized communities beyond race.
• Advocating for a collective approach that benefits everyone and challenges systemic inequities.

1. Importance of Intersectionality:

• Emphasizing the importance of intersectional analysis when addressing discrimination and inequities.
• Recognizing that various forms of discrimination are interconnected and need to be addressed together.

1. Rainbow Coalition and Collective Action:

• Reference to the concept of a Rainbow Coalition that unites diverse groups for social change.
• Urging collective action for justice, equity, and systemic change.

1. Call for Change and Better Society:

• Urging a proactive approach to create a more just and equitable society.
• Emphasizing the need for policy changes, compassion, and collaboration.

Conclusion:

• Reiteration of the importance of working together to address systemic inequalities.
• Acknowledgment of the potential for positive change through collective efforts.

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