What term describes the practice of favoring a group previously discriminated against in employment or education?

The practice of favoring a group previously discriminated against in employment or education is known as Affirmative Action. This term refers to policies and practices intended to improve opportunities for historically marginalized groups, ensuring that these individuals have equitable access to employment and educational resources. Affirmative Action seeks to address systemic inequalities by actively promoting inclusion and representation of those who have faced discrimination based on race, gender, or other characteristics.

This approach is designed not only to rectify past injustices but also to create a more diverse and representative workforce and educational environment. By implementing Affirmative Action, organizations and institutions aim to level the playing field, thus enhancing opportunities for individuals who may have been overlooked or excluded in the past.

The other terms mentioned do not encapsulate this specific practice. Equal Opportunity emphasizes providing the same chances for all individuals without regard to their background but does not involve specific measures taken to promote equity for marginalized groups. Integration refers to the process of bringing different groups together, particularly in social contexts, and does not inherently imply an affirmative favoring of those who have been discriminated against. Disparate Impact refers to policies or practices that, while seemingly neutral, disproportionately affect certain groups but does not connote the proactive measures of support found in Affirmative Action.