affirmative action Hear it!

affirmative action Definition

☆ affirmative action

noun

a policy or program for correcting the effects of discrimination in the employment or education of members of certain groups, as women, blacks, etc.

affirmative action Law Definition

n

Any acts by a private or public entity to eliminate discrimination, to correct or remedy the effects of past discrimination, or to prevent future discrimination. Such discrimination is usually based on the race, sex, national origin, or disability of the person being discriminated against. See also reverse discrimination.