Positive Action, Particularism, and Practice

This article provides an analysis of conceptual and operational issues surrounding 'race'related positive action strategies in Britain and connects these with broader concerns about difference and universality. Two case studies - of developments in housing and in media representation - are examined to asses the extent, nature and impact of positive action strategies. Here limited success of 'old-style' positive action is shown in relation to programme goals. Our evaluation is exploratory and there is a need to develop further research and an effective evaluation methodology. The paper then looks beyond the immediate successes and limitations of positive action strategies, to consider the implications of increasing recognition of differentiation, and increasingly particularistic claims, in a context of ethnic and experiential diversity. Positive action strategies are by no means unproblematic in a climate where there are pressures to respond to differences of culture, gender, age, ethnicity, impairment or sexual orientation. Universalistic programmes and standards retain considerable merit in such a context, and the 'fit' between these and positive action strategies may be crucial. In addition, attention to organizational goals and needs, organizational change and the 'compelling interest' to actively respond to continuing patterns of discrimination are highlighted as key issues for the practice agenda.