Far too many Black, Latino/a/x, Indigenous, and other students are being harmed by persistent systemic barriers linked to their racial and ethnic identities. Broad strategies to help all students that ignore race have shown that rising tides do not lift all boats. This is not only true in regard to degree attainment. Black, Latino/a/x, and Indigenous students, faculty, and staff are also experiencing disparities in hiring, wages, and career advancement. To achieve racial equity, we must be explicit about race and confront systems that were never designed for Black, Latino/a/x, and Indigenous students.
The Higher Ed Equity Network brings together organizations and leaders with a wide array of expertise and a deep commitment to addressing the unique needs of Black, Latino/a/x, Indigenous, and other students who are harmed by persistent systemic barriers linked to their racial and ethnic identities.
We believe that higher education can and will serve as a path to economic and social mobility for students of all backgrounds, a foundation for families, and an anchor point for community prosperity. This is difficult work that will take time and coordination. We will help create a more just system that connects Black, Latino/a/x, and Indigenous students with jobs, equitable wages, and opportunities for career advancement, so they can engage all of their creativity, resilience, and intelligence on their passions - instead of overcoming racial barriers to success.
