Which group is specifically targeted for inclusion by affirmative action?

Affirmative action policies are designed to promote equal opportunity and to enhance the representation of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups within various sectors, particularly in employment and education. These policies specifically aim to address the systemic disadvantages faced by these groups, which often include racial and ethnic minorities, women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized populations.

The focus of affirmative action is to create a more equitable workforce by implementing measures that actively encourage the inclusion of individuals from these underrepresented groups. This can take various forms, such as targeted recruitment efforts, training programs, and initiatives to increase access to opportunities that have historically been denied or limited.

Other groups, while they may also benefit from various workforce initiatives, do not specifically align with the primary objective of affirmative action. For instance, highly skilled workers may not necessarily be considered a target for affirmative action, as this group can often have more opportunities due to their skills. Similarly, senior management roles and contract workers do not inherently relate to the core purpose of addressing historical inequities faced by underrepresented populations. Therefore, underrepresented groups are the primary focus of affirmative action initiatives, emphasizing the commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in various settings.