"I think private business should be left to hire those they feel are best qualified to fill open positions."
Of course they should.
But I can see arguments for wanting diversity in a company. In Atlanta a law firm is likely to have so well off black clients - in the Southwest I can see where having some Latino lawyers might help present a better face to Latino clients.
In the computer hardware industry it's very helpful to have people who are native Chinese speakers.
Then the best qualified for the position needed to be filled would be requirements: 1) to be fluent in another culture's language and 2) familiarity with the country's customs.
Not using affirmative action still applies: those who best fill the needs are hired based on requirements and qualifications, not a person's skin color or sex.
Passing over someone whose SKILLS excel in the areas required simply because of their skin color or gender is wrong.
"But I can see arguments for wanting diversity in a company. In Atlanta a law firm is likely to have so well off black clients - in the Southwest I can see where having some Latino lawyers might help present a better face to Latino clients"
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Let the market place dictate. If some dinosaur co. doesn't higher the best and the brightest then let their competitor who does put them out of business.