Affirmative Action has been used since 1961 to expand opportunity and promote equality.

2000 - current   |   1990-1999   |   1980-1989   |    1970-1979   |    1960-1969    |   Show All

1989 Richmond v. J.A. Croson Co.
The Supreme Court struck down Richmond's minority contracting program as unconstitutional, requiring that a state or local affirmative action program be supported by a "compelling interest" and be narrowly tailored to ensure that the program furthers that interest.

1987 Johnson v. Transportation Agency, Santa Clara County
The Supreme Court ruled that a severe under representation of women and minorities justified the use of race or sex as "one factor" in choosing among qualified candidates.

1986 Local 28 of the Sheet Metal Workers' Int. Ass'n v. EEOC
The Supreme Court upheld a judicially-ordered 29% minority "membership admission goal" for a union that had intentionally discriminated against minorities, confirming that courts may order race- conscious relief to correct and prevent future discrimination.

1985 Preservation of E.O. 11246
Efforts by some in the Reagan administration to repeal Executive Order 11246 were thwarted by defenders of affirmative action, including other Reagan administration officials and members of Congress from both parties.

1983 Executive Order 12432
President Ronald Reagan issued E.O. 12432, which directed each federal agency with substantial procurement or grant making authority to develop a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) development plan.

1982 Discrimination Against Gays Illegal in WI
Wisconsin becomes the first state to adopt a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against gay people.

2000 - current   |    1990-1999   |   1980-1989   |    1970-1979   |    1960-1969    |    Show All