Intersectional Racism in Higher Education
You’re leading a student workshop. How would you explain Eternity Martis’s experience of racism at Western University?
She faced racism compounded by sexism, including microaggressions, exclusion, and stereotypes like being labeled “angry.”
You’re advising a diversity committee. How does Sara Ahmed describe “diversity work”?
Faculty and students of color often carry the burden of “doing diversity” without systemic support.
You’re presenting to Western’s administration. How does the EDIDA plan address Indigenous reconciliation?
It commits to decolonization, recognizing Indigenous histories, land, and knowledge systems, and embedding reconciliation in policy.
You’re designing a course on anthropology and racism. How would you connect Martis’s experiences to Ahmed’s critique?
Martis’s lived experiences show how diversity rhetoric doesn’t prevent exclusion, echoing Ahmed’s argument about symbolic diversity.
You’re briefing student leaders. How can intersectional experiences inform equity policy?
Policies must address overlapping identities (race, gender, language) to ensure inclusive support systems.
A professor asks how linguistic racism affects Black students. What example would you give?
Black students are penalized for dialects or accents, reinforcing systemic barriers in classrooms.
A policymaker asks why diversity policies sometimes fail. How do you explain this using Ahmed’s critique?
Diversity is often treated as a symbolic commitment, masking deeper inequities in hiring, curriculum, and student experience.
A student asks how Western is tackling systemic racism. What initiatives would you highlight?
Anti-racism training, equity in hiring/admissions, and accountability through annual reporting and consultation.
A faculty member asks how EDIDA responds to Ahmed’s concerns. What’s your answer?
EDIDA shifts from symbolic diversity to structural commitments, though effectiveness depends on sustained accountability.
You’re evaluating Western’s EDIDA plan. How does it integrate accessibility into equity work?
By committing to equitable access to education and resources, alongside diversity and decolonization priorities.