Dealing with Racism on College Campuses

Hey there, I've heard stories about racial issues on college campuses and it's starting to concern me as I'm beginning my college search. Instead of asking which are the most racist colleges, I prefer to ask how can we deal with racism if we encounter it and how should we promote diversity and inclusion?

Your question is quite important, and it's great that you're thinking actively about these issues. Colleges indeed offer a diverse environment, and yet, issues of racism and discrimination can occur.

If you encounter any form of racism on campus, the first and most important step is to report it. Most universities have a dedicated office for handling such issues, like an Office for Equity and Inclusion or Office for Diversity and Human Rights. They're there specifically to ensure that the environment on campus is welcoming to everyone. An incident report would typically entail providing a detailed description of what happened, any potential witnesses, and any related evidence.

You should also remember that you're not alone. Reach out to your network—friends, mentors, and family—about what you're going through. There are also student clubs that advocate for marginalized communities, and organizations that offer counseling and support specifically targeted towards students of color.

In terms of promoting diversity and inclusion, a good start would be to educate others. You have the ability to challenge racism not just by standing up against it when you see it, but also by encouraging ongoing conversation and education about race, privilege, and social justice. Perhaps you could join or start a cultural or diversity-affiliated club on campus, which are great platforms for advocating greater understanding and change.

Also, showing allyship is a powerful tool in promoting diversity and inclusion. This means standing up for peers who are experiencing racism, even if you're not directly affected.

One thing that we should all keep in mind is that real change takes time, patience, and persistent effort. It's a marathon, not a sprint.