Exploring the Effects of Institutional Inequalities on African American Students' Racial Ideology and Activism

• In Event: 16.056 - Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: 16.056-16 - Issues of Race and Gender: African American Students

Abstract

This study focuses on the racial ideologies of African American students at a predominantly white institution, utilizing the multidimensional model of racial identity (MMRI). While it has been established that institutional environments influence racial identity, when quantitative data categorizes individuals within certain racial ideologies, assumptions are often made to interpret their responses. This study produced in-depth understanding of the engagement of black student leaders and their experiences with racial inequalities. By transforming multidimensional inventory of black identity (MIBI) survey items as an interview protocol through constructivist methodology, participants gave meaning to the development of multiple ideologies. Findings revealed the influence of white institutional norms as students created their own definitions of activism as representatives of the black student community.

Author

• Veronica Jones, The University of Texas - Austin