the encouragement of increased representation of women and minority-group members, especially in employment.
noun
US a policy or programme designed to counter discrimination against minority groups and women in areas such as employment and educationBrit equivalent: positive discrimination
A term referring to various government policies that aim to increase the proportion of African-Americans, women, and other minorities in jobs and educational institutions historically dominated by white men. The policies usually require employers and institutions to set goals for hiring or admitting minorities.