64. Prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) and offer antiracism learning opportunities.[i]

Campus Climate 09.6.24

Here’s what the federal government can do:

  • The U.S. Department of Education should collect, conduct, and disseminate research on access to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) and antiracism learning opportunities, including curriculum, and their effectiveness in promoting safer and more inclusive campuses.

Here’s what state government can do:

  • State legislatures should enact legislation that requires higher education institutions to offer training or learning opportunities on DEIA and antiracism.
  • State legislatures should appropriate funding to support culturally responsive teaching practices and professional development among faculty and staff at higher education institutions.

Here’s what institutional leaders can do:

  • Higher education institutions should offer DEIA and antiracism learning opportunities, including training and culturally responsive curriculum./li>
  • Higher education institutions should invest in the professional development of faculty and staff to build stronger culturally responsive teaching practices.

Today’s students should receive an education that actively engages them in an interconnected and diverse learning community. DEIA in higher education can support students in feeling recognized, valued, and respected. Research shows that student belonging improves academic outcomes, increases continued enrollment, and is protective for mental health.[ii] Yet many states continue to introduce anti-DEIA legislation in higher education. And since 2022, only two states, Washington and New Mexico, have passed bills requiring higher education institutions to offer training or learning opportunities on DEIA or antiracism.[iii,iv]

Higher education institutions should provide robust learning opportunities, through training and curriculum, on the truthful history of racism and colonization, which continue to influence societal systems of privilege.[v]

[i]As described in the note provided in the introduction of this resource, DEIA programs and race-conscious policies generally vary in their terms and scope; most programs and services, as well as the recommendations offered in this document, are lawful under federal statutory and constitutional laws. Readers are encouraged to consult with their attorneys for legal advice to understand the rights and obligations of students, faculty, administrators, and greater society.

[ii]“Students’ Sense of Belonging Matters: Evidence from Three Studies,” MIT Teaching + Learning Lab. https://tll.mit.edu/sense-of-belonging-matters/.

[iii]Contreras, Russell. “https://www.axios.com/2024/01/31/anti-dei-bills-target-colleges-surge-antiracism.

[iv]Although being antiracist is experienced differently by white people and people of color, it involves the process of identifying, challenging, and confronting racism in systems such as organizational structures, policies, practices, and behaviors.

[v]“Being Antiracist,” National Museum of African American History & Culture. https://nmaahc.si.edu/learn/talking-about-race/topics/being-antiracist.