Scratchin' and-a Survivin': Contradictions of Diversity as Action at the Front Lines of the Neo-Democratic Postracial

• In Event: 16.050 - Diversity and Multiculturalism in Higher Education

Abstract

This paper focuses, as an intellectual, theoretical, and data informed endeavor, on the increasing hostility faced by equity/diversity practitioners since the election of President Obama through what has been the chaos of the Republican National Convention of 2016. Across the country, diversity practitioners at all levels of college and university hierarchies are under assault. These assaults represent a type of action counter to the action spurned by foundational knowledge as called for by President Gadsden for this AERA. The assaults are so widespread begs the question, “Is it coordinated or only coincidentally similar?,” leaving us ‘Scratchin' and-a Survivin’ for resources, respect, and a new reality that better mirrors the complexity of the 21st century.

Authors

• Kenneth James Fasching-Varner, Louisiana State University

• Christine Clark, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Lori Latrice Martin, Louisiana State University