The Jackson Amendment: A Legacy of Discrimination and Denial

The Jackson Amendment, introduced by Senator Henry M. Jackson of Washington in 1974, stands as a testament to the insidious nature of discrimination and the power of denial in American history. This controversial amendment aimed to undermine affirmative action policies, casting a long shadow over efforts to address systemic inequalities.

The Jackson Amendment

by Mary Frances Berry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2155 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Context: A Legacy of Segregation and Inequality

The Jackson Amendment emerged at a time when the United States was grappling with the legacy of segregation and the fight for civil rights. Despite the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, discriminatory practices persisted in various spheres, including education, employment, and housing. Affirmative action policies were introduced as a means to redress these injustices, providing opportunities for historically marginalized groups.

The Amendment's Provisions: A Blow to Affirmative Action

The Jackson Amendment sought to prohibit the use of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin as a factor in the hiring, promotion, or education of individuals by the federal government. It specifically targeted affirmative action programs, declaring that "no person in the United States shall on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance."

The Intent Behind the Amendment: A Veil of Denial

While ostensibly framed as a measure to promote equality, the Jackson Amendment was rooted in a deep resistance to affirmative action and a refusal to acknowledge the lingering effects of discrimination. Senator Jackson and his supporters argued that affirmative action policies constituted "reverse discrimination" and violated the principles of meritocracy. They claimed that the use of race as a factor in decision-making would lead to unqualified individuals being hired or admitted to schools, undermining the integrity of institutions.

The Impact: A Chilling Effect on Affirmative Action

The passage of the Jackson Amendment had a significant chilling effect on affirmative action policies. Federal agencies, fearing legal challenges, became hesitant to implement or enforce such programs. Universities and employers scaled back or eliminated race-conscious hiring and admissions processes. As a result, the representation of historically marginalized groups in education and employment declined.

The Legacy: A Continuing Debate

The Jackson Amendment remains a controversial topic in American society, with advocates and opponents continuing to debate its merits and impact. Proponents argue that it prevents discrimination against white individuals and promotes a level playing field. Opponents contend that it perpetuates systemic inequalities and undermines efforts to create a truly equitable society.

Mary Frances Berry: A Voice of Dissent

Mary Frances Berry, a renowned civil rights advocate and historian, has been a vocal critic of the Jackson Amendment. Berry served as the first Chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and has dedicated her life to fighting discrimination and promoting equality. She has argued that the Jackson Amendment is a "disaster" that has hindered progress towards a more just society.

In her book "The Pig Farmer's Daughter," Berry offers a powerful critique of the Jackson Amendment and its proponents. She argues that the amendment is based on a "mythical world of meritocracy" that ignores the realities of systemic discrimination. Berry calls for a "fundamental rethinking" of the use of race in decision-making, recognizing that it is often necessary to address the effects of past and present discrimination.

The Jackson Amendment stands as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States. Despite its passage nearly five decades ago, the amendment continues to cast a shadow over efforts to address systemic inequalities. The voices of critics like Mary Frances Berry are essential in challenging the narratives that perpetuate discrimination and in demanding a truly just society for all.

The Jackson Amendment

by Mary Frances Berry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2155 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE