College racial segregation

Date and country of first publication

2020
United States

Definition

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Racial segregation in colleges refers to the practice of separating students based on their race or ethnicity, either formally or informally. This can manifest in various ways, such as segregated housing, segregated classrooms, or segregated social spaces.

Historically, racial segregation in colleges was pervasive in the United States during the era of Jim Crow laws and racial discrimination. African American students were often denied admission to predominantly white colleges and were forced to attend historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). These HBCUs were established to provide higher education opportunities for African American students, who were systematically excluded from predominantly white institutions.

Over time, efforts have been made to address and rectify past racial segregation in colleges. Through civil rights movements and legal actions, racial discrimination in education has been challenged and banned. Today, colleges and universities are generally committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus. Affirmative action policies have been implemented in many institutions to ensure opportunities for historically underrepresented groups, including racial and ethnic minorities.

However, despite progress, racial segregation can still persist in some forms. Some studies have found that residential segregation, socio-economic factors, and structural inequalities continue to influence the racial composition of colleges and universities. In some cases, students from minority groups may experience isolation or marginalization on predominantly white campuses, leading to the formation of affinity or cultural clubs as safe spaces.

Efforts to address racial segregation in colleges involve promoting diversity through admissions policies, creating inclusive campus environments, and implementing programs that support underrepresented students. Additionally, colleges may provide resources and support services to ensure that students from all backgrounds can thrive academically and socially. These initiatives aim to combat racial segregation and promote equality and inclusion in higher education institutions.

Further reading

Hinrichs P. (2020) "Affirmative action and racial segregation", Journal of Law and Economics, 63(2), pp. 239-267. University of Chicago Press. DOI: [htttp://doi.org/10.1086/706930 10.1086/706930]