18.011 - Race on Campus: Debunking Myths With Data

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium will assemble a diverse group of scholars to confront post-truth myths that permeate public opinion on how race works in higher education. Panelists will address misconceptions such as the accusation that students of color pervasively self-segregate, that students of color are mismatched at elite institutions, and that Asian Americans are hurt by affirmative action. Panelists will draw on their own research to address myths and will also engage with a common scholarly text addressing the symposium’s theme around challenging race-related misconceptions, the book “Race on Campus: Debunking Myths with Data.” We aim to engage the audience in lively discussion concerning why racialized myths are so pervasive within higher education and the role of research in combatting false assumptions.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Julie J. Park, University of Maryland - College Park

Papers

• Introductory Comments by Chair, Symposium Overview, and Context - Julie J. Park, University of Maryland - College Park

• Influences of the Legal Arena on Myths Surrounding Affirmative Action - Liliana M. Garces, University of Texas at Austin

• Asian Americans and Affirmative Action - Megan Segoshi, Loyola University Chicago

• Critiquing the Mismatch Hypothesis - Kimberly Griffin, University of Maryland

• Why Don't We See All the White Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Exploring the Campus Politics of Real and Perceived Racial Segregation - Nolan L. Cabrera, The University of Arizona

• Discussant Background - Lorelle Espinosa, American Council on Education

Discussant

• Lorelle Espinosa, American Council on Education