It has been over two months since the murder and death of George Floyd, May 25, with the backdrop of a global pandemic and economic shutdown. And the destructive forces and realities of anti-Black racism are just as strong as ever. For Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Color, these forces and the endless fight against them are certainly nothing new. Some have been … [Read more...]
Revisiting the Topic of Reparations for African Americans or ADOS (American Descendants of Slaves)
In recognition of the 4th of July or Independence Day in the United States, the Institutional Diversity Blog revisits the topic of reparations for African American or American Descendants of Slaves (ADOS). Ta-Nehisi Coates’ article in The Atlantic June 2014 issue, “The Case for Reparations,” changed the game and the conversation of reparations for African Americans. Instead … [Read more...]
Reflecting on the 4th of July
While having a coffee on Canada Day (July 1), reading Kaleem Hawa's article about patriotism in Canada, I thought about the 4th and it's connection to patriotism. Then my mind flashed to my elementary school days, saying the Pledge of Allegiance and singing The Star Spangled Banner every morning through grade school. We also sang The Black National Anthem too! My mind then … [Read more...]
Race in Educational Access and Attainment Still Matters!
On June 23, 2016, the United States Supreme Court upheld in the Fisher v. University of Texas case the continued use of race-conscious policies in higher education. I must admit that I am somewhat surprised but given the balance of the court of liberal and conservative voices with the absence of Justices Kagan and Scalia, maybe this is what tipped the scale. This decision, … [Read more...]
Never Invited to the 4th of July Party: The Case for Reparations & Citizenship – Part II
With 4th of July events coming up, there will be many gatherings and parties. In any type of party, whether particularly posh or just cool and casual, a set of implicit rules always exists: Don’t eat before everyone else; Don’t get drunk, and Don't talk about politics or religion. However, life for People of Color hasn't exactly been a … [Read more...]