OLYMPIA, Wash. - More than two decades after Washington state voters banned affirmative action, the question of whether one’s minority status should be considered as a contributing factor in state employment, contracting and admission to public colleges and universities is back on the ballot. The Nov. 5 vote comes after the Legislature raced to approve Initiative 1000 on the final day of this year’s legislative session last April. Referendum 88 asks voters to either approve or reject the measure that amends 1998’s Initiative 200, which was approved by 58% of voters. Along with race, sex, and ethnicity, the measure allows consideration of age, disability and honourable discharge or military status. “It puts Washington state on par with the 42 other states that currently allow for affirmative action and increased opportunity and fairness for communities and people who have been left out and left behind for years,” she said.

Source: thestar October 18, 2019 23:03 UTC