Description:

In this episode of "Get Uncomfortable," host Adam Smith delves deep into the topic of affirmative action in college admissions with his guest, Dr. Zach Ritter. They discuss the historical context of affirmative action, its impact on different communities, and its relevance in modern-day America. Dr. Ritter, a scholar and diversity inclusion educator, sheds light on the systemic racism and inequality that persist despite progress made over the years. The conversation brings to the forefront the need for a more comprehensive understanding of affirmative action, its origins, and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to the guest, Dr. Zach Ritter, a diversity inclusion educator and Vice President of Leadership Development at the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles.
• The origins of affirmative action: Exploring its historical context dating back to the Freedmen's Bureau in 1865 and its relevance today.
• Affirmative action and the impact on different racial and ethnic groups, including white women, during the early 1900s.
• The exclusion of black and brown people from government benefits such as the GI Bill after World War II and how it perpetuated inequality.
• The rise of the Civil Rights Movement and the push for affirmative action in the 1960s and 1970s.
• The landmark Supreme Court case, Bakke v. University of California, and its impact on quotas and college admissions.
• The Gratz v. Bollinger and Grutter v. Bollinger cases and their role in shaping affirmative action policies in the early 2000s.
• Understanding racism as a set of rigged rules and the need for systemic change to address inequality.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Zack Ritter received his PhD in higher education from UCLA and has been actively involved in diversity and inclusion education. He has served as the Associate Dean of Students at California State University Dominguez Hills and is currently the Vice President of Advancement at Jewish World Watch. Dr. Ritter also teaches a course called "The Revolution Might Be Televised: Social Justice History through Music and Movies."

About the Show:

"Get Uncomfortable" is a thought-provoking podcast hosted by Adam Smith that dives deep into conversations about race, politics, religion, and more. The show aims to challenge conventional beliefs and promote open discussions on critical social issues to foster understanding and empathy.

Stay Connected:

• Host's Website: HearAdamSpeak.com
• Guest: Dr. Zach Ritter on LinkedIn

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