D.L. Stewart, Professor at the University of Denver, Monique Atherley, a senior policy specialist at a major educational labor union, and Shana Philpott, Director of the Native American Student Support Program, dive into race and indigeneity in higher education. They emphasize the importance of land acknowledgments and genuine allyship with Indigenous communities. Discussions include advocating for Indigenous voices, the challenges of belonging for marginalized students, and the need for decolonization in education, all while exploring intersectionality and the role of advocacy in fostering inclusive environments.
Land acknowledgments are crucial first steps, but true allyship requires building reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities for meaningful engagement.
The conversation around labor in higher education highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing contributions from marginalized identities, especially during crises.
Higher education institutions are increasingly prioritizing social justice and intersectionality, demanding accountability and meaningful changes in support of diverse populations.
Deep dives
The Importance of Land Acknowledgments
Land acknowledgments serve as formal statements that honor Indigenous peoples as the traditional stewards of the land. They express gratitude and appreciation for the territories we occupy and recognize the ongoing relationship between these communities and their ancestral lands. However, land acknowledgments are just a starting point; the ultimate goal is to foster reciprocal relationships with tribal communities. It is essential to move beyond mere acknowledgment to engage in meaningful partnerships and allyship with Indigenous peoples.
Understanding Labor Dynamics
The conversation around labor in higher education highlights the need to understand who is laboring and the sacrifices being made, especially by those with marginalized identities. Discussions about labor dynamics are crucial for recognizing equity and justice in educational settings. These efforts aim to ensure that the labor of individuals is seen and valued, particularly those who are often invisible in the institution's framework. The ongoing pandemic has further emphasized the importance of this discourse, as many institutions have overlooked the realities of labor and the people behind it.
The Evolution of Higher Education Institutions
There has been a notable shift in higher education institutions toward recognizing social justice, racial justice, and decolonization as priority issues. Monique pointed out the establishment of roles like the decolonization strategies chair within organizations to ensure accountability and progress on these fronts. The evolution reflects a growing understanding of the historical contexts of oppression, including the forced displacement of Indigenous peoples and the exploitation of marginalized communities. Institutions are now being challenged to commit to intersectional approaches that consider the unique experiences of individuals from various backgrounds.
The Need for Intersectional Understanding
Understanding intersectionality goes beyond recognizing multiple identities; it entails examining how systems of oppression interact to affect individuals uniquely. Educational institutions often fail to acknowledge these complexities, resulting in policies that inadequately address the needs of diverse student populations. There is a pressing need for practices that promote solidarity among marginalized communities to dismantle oppressive structures effectively. Listening and collaborating with one another can enhance awareness and promote meaningful systemic changes.
Facing Systemic Challenges
Higher education institutions must confront systemic challenges related to equity and inclusion, particularly in the context of ongoing societal discrimination. The lack of funding and institutional commitment to diversity initiatives often leads to feelings of performativity in these programs. The discussion emphasizes the importance of supporting those working in marginalized spaces to ensure they do not feel abandoned amidst institutional changes. Collective responsibility and commitment to long-term solutions are crucial in transforming the landscape of higher education for the better.
This episode examines the current status, and future directions of race and indigeneity in student affairs and higher education. The episode offers a brief glimpse of the evolution of ACPA as an example of one professional association grappling with and addressing these complex issues.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
