By Andrew Hedlund August 23, 2010 at 6:41 pm

Getting a college degree is more essential to success than ever before. Yet Arizona voters will see a proposition in November that questions if we should allow minorities access to programs designed to help them earn a diploma to help them succeed.

Proposition 107, also known as the “affirmative action proposition,” could end those programs, if passed.

However, the notion that affirmative action exists in Arizona is a misconception, according to Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Phoenix.

“What we do have are equal opportunity programs,” she said. “They are programs that allow people to succeed. Affirmative action is not legal in Arizona.”

Admitting a student of color to a university, with a greater consideration of ethnic background than academic qualifications, would be affirmative action. This is not allowed in Arizona.

“You get admitted [to universities] based on your merit,” Sinema said.