This weekend, Netflix released its latest original series, "Dear White People." Based on the 2014 movie of the same name, the series talks about racism in college in a witty, honest way.
In its debut ten-episode arc, "Dear White People" highlights blackface, cultural appropriation, "reverse racism," and more issues that students at a fictional Ivy League school must face.
Most significantly, the students must combat these issues at a PWI (predominantly white institution) that does nothing to penalize the racist campus culture. When issues of race come up, the President and Dean of Students try to accuse black students of stirring up trouble or attempt to justify their inaction to meet the interests of donors. Instead of listening to and supporting students, the administrators push them aside to maintain a positive impression, a common trend among schools nationwide.
This is nothing new to college campuses. Like the students in "Dear White People," black students and those from other marginalized groups across the country are confronted by complacent administrations every day. They are unable to have a safe, inclusive experience at their schools because discrimination continues without consequence. Trans-exclusionary policies and racism among students hinder the college experience for those affected. Over the years, many students have listed demands for their institutions in which they implore their administrations to acknowledge and respond to campus issues by creating diversity programming or safe spaces. Others have organized demonstrations to vocalize their frustrations.
My small liberal arts PWI is no different. The school boasts that the undergrad population consists of students "from nearly every religious, racial and ethnic background," going even further to highlight its achievements in interfaith understanding, providing for LGBT+ students, and working with undocumented individuals.
Despite this, the college president has remained silent amidst the push for anti-Muslim, LGBT+, and immigration legislation that threaten the safety and well-being of many on our campus. The college has already had issues with divisiveness and exclusion prior to this, such as limited all-gender accommodations and racist remarks from students, which were seemingly met with no consequences. In response, students have organized campus events to address these problems and demanded change in the campus community. Apart from a promise to stick to the college's core values, the administration has done little to reassure the marginalized groups on campus that their voices are being heard.
I know that administrators may worry that taking these steps implies taking a political stance, but compassion is an issue of morality, not politics. Giving your support to students who feel unsafe on campus and in this country won't suddenly link the school to a political party. What we ask for is action in a time where apathy is unacceptable. Let your students know that they are safe on their campuses. Let them know that discrimination in any form is not tolerated and will be met with consequences. Let them know that they will be able to pursue their education in an environment where they are accepted.
So while #wearestillwaiting, check out "Dear White People" for a thorough illustration of students facing similar issues and continue to demand more from those in charge of your institution.
