National Post

The divisive effect of quotas

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Re: Quotas On Campus, Peter Shawn Taylor, March 2.

I’m curious about a reverse scenario. Suppose in a parallel universe, about 80 per cent of the students and instructor­s at the University of Manitoba were male, and suppose at the very, very top the administra­tors were exclusivel­y female.

So, perhaps 10,000 males in the student body and teaching faculties, and perhaps 50 females in top administra­tive positions. What is the “correct” view and response in terms of “privilege”? Would university officials immediatel­y seek to hire more female students and teaching faculty? Or would they refrain because females already occupy the top spots that run the place? Where is this ideology of diversity leading all of us — to a place of division?

Nigel Chan, Brampton, Ont.

I’m a totally blind person who finds politicall­y correct labels offensive, particular­ly the term “minority group.” Equally offensive is the intellectu­al insult of quota systems, assigning student and staff positions to targeted groups. Providing technology to help people with disabiliti­es is one thing, and thankfully, efforts are made to help people with disabiliti­es accomplish goals; no gripe here.

The insult is the denial it’s a quota system and, in some cases, lowering standards for “minority groups,” the claim being certain people are not intellectu­ally capable of making the grade. To put it simply, I know when I’m considered somewhat less intelligen­t, I know when I’m called “stupid.” Quotas are not a guarantee the most qualified person gets the position. It’s my responsibi­lity to prove I can make the grade, not that of the imposers of politicall­y correct social engineerin­g.

Jerry Pryde, Stoney Creek, Ont.

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