A discussion on diversity and racism

After presenting together at ACRL to share research we conducted on race, identity, and diversity in academic librarianship, we reconvene panelists Ione T. Resuming the conversation that started at ACRL, we discuss why diversity really matters to academic libraries, librarians, and the profession, and where to go from here. We conclude this article with a series of questions for readers to consider, share, and discuss among colleagues to continue and advance the conversation on diversity in libraries.

In which areas and at what levels?

This is my story, and I'm sticking to it.

How is it measured? Why is cultural celebration an inadequate response to racial problems? Cite examples of each.

Which is more predominant on your campus? How is diversity addressed at your school? How can it be better tied to notions of social justice? I wish I could just be me. It robs me of my college experience.

How does it feel to be the only person of your race in a large group?

Does being underrepresented create additional burdens and stressors for students of color? What campus conditions might adversely impact their opportunities for success? How can faculty, administrators and staff be more aware of challenges?

What specific efforts policies and practices are being made to mentor, support, and retain students of color? I notice the segregation of the Greek system. Do racial groups cluster together in certain activities or parts of campus? Which settings are more or less diverse? Why do you think this is?

What can you do to make your study groups, clubs and social circles more diverse? What obstacles might you run up against?

As faculty and administrators, what efforts do you make to help students cross racial lines? Does balkanization happen on an institutional level — in your department, among your staff?

How can you encourage more dialogue and interaction?On resources for families to have conversations and race, racism and identity.

1. Families of Color Seattle. 2. Seattle Public Schools Race & Equity Teams.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, 21 March

Thanks for this. I was just watching some film of Jane Elliot on Upworthy (she famously does the blue eyes/brown eyes model for teaching racism) and she compared understanding racism/privilege to the stages of grief, which really resonated with me, as well.

The city of Kingman, Arizona, is the latest target of Sacha Baron Cohen’s satirical show Who Is America?, and local officials are scrambling to respond to the comedian’s portrayal of Kingman. The latest breaking news video and visual storytelling from HuffPost.

Racism, History and Lies

Purpose and Goals of the Standards. The following standards were developed by the Racial and Ethnic Diversity Committee of ACRL (Association of College & Research Libraries), based on the National Association of Social Workers Standards for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice.

1 The standards are intended to emphasize the need and obligation to serve and advocate for racial and. I’ve noticed discussions in diversity matters happening at a University library level, but it ends at a discussion level.

There is little curriculum or course implementation within the academic library setting.