The divisive effect of quotas
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.