Explain how affirmative action can help address these barriers to ensure the participation of these populations even at the highest levels of society and in politics.

An essay that discusses the concepts of diversity and equity within both the engineering profession and Canadian society, with an focus on legislated affirmative action. After introducing the topic in an engaging manner, the paper will first define affirmative action and identify the stakeholders and barriers encountered by aboriginal peoples, women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and sexual minorities. At least three of these populations must be represented in your essay.

Explain how affirmative action can help address these barriers to ensure the participation of these populations even at the highest levels of society and in politics. For example, an article published in an influential scientific journal suggested white male scientists, should voluntarily delay their career advancement and pay increases, so that their underprivileged colleagues could catch up and social justice be served. Your paper will also discuss how affirmative action can improve the workplace through inclusion, with the recruitment and promotions of diversity candidates through senior management and into executive ranks.

Your paper will then outline arguments in favour of a merit-based approach, where for example, admission into law or medical school, or promotional career growth are competitively earned, without identity politics, in contrast to affirmative action, and the advantages it offers to certain favored populations. You will then forward the position that you believe is more advantageous and outline the reasons for your position before concluding your paper with a summary of the key points and final thought.