You make a very good point, cdn2wheeler, and I have to say I agree with you.
There is also another attitude that arises from this. If you are part of a certain demographic who these programs are designed to aid, it is assumed that the only reason you got a position in the workplace is that you were helped rather than there being any basis of qualifications or suitability for the job. It cannot do much good for relations between the demographic groups, put it that way!
By the way, talking about this subject here is very enlightening, it is refreshing to not feel in a position where I have to defend myself in some way. It is interesting how, at some point during discussions of this nature and on this topic, it can be easy to cling to personal positions and biases rather than look at the wider perspectives. As I said, I would like to think past that, but discussing this topic daily in different circles on each side of the debate can make one jaded. Thank you all for providing some insight into this subject.