Scholars of color explore bias in academe: Calling in allies and sharing affirmations for us by us

Abstract

Systemic bias and discrimination have resulted in some groups benefitting from centuries of advantages and other groups being harmed by centuries of disadvantages in our society. As an institution within our imperfect society, Academe is subject to the same systems of privilege and oppression that differentially drive advancement rates among scholars. In this editorial, we focus attention on the microaggressions and discrimination scholars of color experience in Academe in the United States. Specifically, we take a personal narrative approach to explore several common challenges scholars of color face and provide affirmations to these scholars to counteract the negative effects of these challenges. Finally, we call in allies by providing insights about their critical role in dismantling systemic bias and being a reliable source of support to scholars of color.