The Cost of Being Subaltern Professors in the Academy: Facing Microaggressions, Lack of Diversity, Fairness, and Inclusion

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Current Issues in Postcolonial Studies and Education

Abstract

Teaching in predominantly white institutions is a terrific challenge for professors of color. In addition to being expected to fulfill professional obligations, such as publishing, teaching, advising and mentoring students, educators and scholars of color constantly have to fight against systemic oppression. Drawing on critical race theory and participants’ testiomnios, this essay seeks to examine micro-aggression (Solórzano, 1998) and intersecting forms of oppression professors of color institutions have been facing. Their testimonios showcase their strong and resilient spirit in resisting institutional oppression. This essay presents a very complex portrait of the experiences of educators and scholars of color and goes on to offer suggestions that might be helpful to those interested in social justice issues in higher education.

Author

• Pierre W. Orelus, Fairfield University