The Experiences of Black African American Academics in Universities in the United States: Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice

• In Event: 29.042 - Diversity in the Academy

Abstract

Using Critical Race Theory, the authors investigate the seemingly intractable barriers and challenges facing predominately white institutions in relationto retaining and recruiting faculty of color. This paper will explore the experiences of Black African American (BAA) academics working in universities in the USA by examining interview responses with thirty BAA academics working in US universities. It will examine the position of BAA academics in higher education and use empirical data to analyse support strategies for successful occupational mobility that BAA academics use in universities. It will also explore how intersectionalities of identity impact on how BAA academics are positioned in their universities. The paper will conclude by offering policy implications for the inclusion of BAA academics in higher education.

Authors

• Kalwant Bhopal, University of Southampton

• Thandeka K. Chapman, University of California - San Diego