This report is based on a presentation prepared for a conference on African American Educational Achievement held at the Educational Testing Service (ETS) in the fall of 2003. The author dissects the widely divergent opinions on the subject of affirmative action and identifies what should be the principles of a sound affirmative admissions regime, while maintaining a sense of the educational and social policies that affirmative action and diversity should reflect. Significant court cases are reviewed, including Baake, Hopwood, Grutter, and Gratz, with the state of Michigan court decisions highlighted. It is asserted that honesty, reasoned and sound policies, comprehensive solutions, steadfast adherence to principles, and patience are essential ingredients for lasting and successful affirmative action programs.