Otherwise known as Proposal 2, the initiative seeks to alter the state constitution to bar the use of affirmative action by state institutions of higher education and governmental agencies.

Entitled Affirmative Action Under Attack: Myth v. Fact, the study not only outlines exactly what Proposal 2 would mean for Michigan but also debunks several myths being spread by the anti-civil rights forces trying to push passage of the measure, such as the mischaracterization of affirmative action as "reverse discrimination" that benefits undeserving minorities at the expense of white men

According to the report, Proposal 2 would, among other things, substantially curtail educational opportunities, undermine health care in underserved communities, and diminish business opportunities for minorities and women.

The report also diffuses several myths about affirmative action. The report details that, affirmative action, among other things:

1) continues to be necessary since, despite the progress made in education, employment, and business in the years since affirmative action policies were put in place, the playing field remains far from level;

2) expands opportunities for qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds;

3) does not negatively impact white men; in fact, even if every single Black unemployed worker in the U.S. were to replace an employed White worker, only 1.5% of Whites would be affected;

4) promotes a diverse, well-prepared work force - one of the reasons it is overwhelmingly supported by business leaders across the country;

5) does not stigmatize minorities and women; it is discrimination and bigotry, not affirmative action, that stigmatize individuals.

To access the full report from the National Urban League's Web site, visit www.nul.org/policyinstitutereports.html. Otherwise, contact Ricky Clemons at 212-558-5371 or rclemons@nul.org.