TRIGGERnometry Why I Left "Racially Hostile" Smith College - Jodi Shaw
Mar 3, 2021
Jodi Shaw, a former employee at Smith College, shares her journey of resigning due to what she describes as a racially hostile environment. She discusses her initial connection to the college's values and the incidents that led to her disillusionment. The conversation dives into the complexities of race and identity in academia, the struggles against ideological isolation, and the necessity of support networks for those confronting oppressive narratives. Jodi's advocacy highlights the importance of courage in maintaining a diverse dialogue within educational institutions.
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The Incident
- Jodi Shaw, a Smith College alumna, returned to work there and witnessed a racially charged incident.
- A Black student accused a white custodian of racism, leading to apologies and anti-bias training before an investigation.
The Rap Incident
- Shaw, tasked with a rap performance, was told she couldn't perform because she's white.
- Her supervisor cited potential cultural appropriation concerns, referencing the earlier incident.
Double Standard
- When Shaw filed a complaint, she was questioned about her belief in white privilege.
- The officer implied that the Civil Rights Act doesn't protect white individuals, highlighting a double standard.
