"Unfortunately, the reality was that, for political reasons or whatever, there was a need to enforce antidiscrimination laws, or at least there was a perceived need to do that"

Clarence Thomas is referring to the need to impose antidiscrimination laws in order to safeguard the rights of minority groups. He acknowledges that this requirement is based on political factors or other motivations, rather than an authentic desire to protect the rights of minority groups. He implies that the need to implement antidiscrimination laws is based on an understanding of what is necessary, rather than a real understanding of the significance of securing minority rights. He is suggesting that the requirement to impose antidiscrimination laws is based on a political agenda, rather than an authentic dedication to safeguarding the rights of minority groups. This quote highlights the value of comprehending the inspirations behind the enforcement of antidiscrimination laws, and the requirement to make sure that these laws are implemented for the best reasons.