Considering the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative
action, should Californians reconsider Prop. 209’s ban on
affirmative action? Pat Ryan
Fourth-year, economics
“I think there should be debate (on affirmative action).
Prop. 209 is a legal thing, but it’s not binding. People can
use other factors to determine admission. There are always ways to
get around laws. I think affirmative action is necessary, but the
extent to which it is used is debatable.” Sarah Hawkins
Second-year, theater and English
“That’s really tricky. I don’t really have a stance
on it. You should definitely promote quality, but at the same time
you are leaving qualified people out. I guess California is doing
the right thing. I can see why they have Prop. 209, but it’s
not clearly a good thing or a bad thing. There’s no black or white
answer.” Emory Donelson
Fourth-year, biochemistry
“I think there should be debate. I like affirmative action
““ it gives us diversity in the academic setting. At UCLA
there is plenty of diversity. But maybe at other campuses
(affirmative action would help). Here at UCLA there is a large
Asian population, while other minorities are
underrepresented.” Kristen Withers
Third-year, psychobiology
“I think affirmative action should be reconsidered, in
light of the Supreme Court ruling. It could be good because it
gives people from a disadvantaged background a chance to be in a
university with people who have had more advantages. It would give
them an equal opportunity.” Compiled by Derek Lazarro/Bruin
Viewpoint Senior Staff, Photos by Yee-Shing Yang/Daily Bruin Senior
Staff