MUST READ: 'The Case for Reparations' - The Atlantic

[joeglow3]

14. I hope I am not discounting race

The issue is fighting those that want to prevent education. There ARE companies that want to hire minorities. When I left two Big Four public accounting firms, both asked the same question in the exit interview: how do I think they could attract more minorities? My response was invest in programs to get minorities into accounting programs in college. The key to solve that is to invest in programs to help minorities achieve that.

There is a grade school I volunteer at that is almost 100% minority. One of the biggest things they look for role models from all professions to volunteer. The kids only know the role models they see and many don't even consider most professions because they don't see it as an option. This particular school has had a lot of success with this route.

Finally, my current employer (a Fortune 500 company), has flat out told us if there are two qualified candidates and one is a minority, always take the minority. They recognize the value of minorities as an untapped market and how hard it is to attract talent if you are an all white company. Not the most altruistic approach, but they want the best talent and recgnize investments will pay off tomorrow.

My personal opinion is that the key is investment in education. I am not talking about some bullshit program here and ther: REALLY invest in schools in inner cities.