Calling Out Racism in the Classroom: A Guide for Newcomers Facing a Racist Professor

Khedija hafsi *Gasmia*
Holistic approaches
5 min readNov 5, 2023

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Empowering Students to Confront Racism in Academia

As a newcomer to a college or university, one expects to encounter a diverse range of ideas and beliefs in the classroom. However, what happens when those beliefs cross the line into racism and extremism? This is a reality that many students face when confronted with a racist professor or a teacher espousing extreme feminist ideologies. It can be a daunting and uncomfortable situation, but it is crucial to address and confront these issues in the classroom. In this blog post, we will discuss how to effectively call out and confront a racist professor or a teacher promoting extremist ideologies.

Understanding and Identifying Racism in Academia

A racist professor in academia requires a clear understanding of racism, which can manifest in various ways such as discriminatory practices, biased curriculum, exclusionary classroom environments, and promoting stereotypes.

Identifying racism in academia involves critical thinking, recognizing unequal treatment, and recognizing diverse perspectives. Addressing these issues can promote a more inclusive learning environment, foster a more equitable learning environment, and address stereotypes.

Practical Steps to Address a Racist Professor

Facing racist concerns, it’s crucial to gather evidence and hold the racist professor accountable. Reach out to classmates and discuss your experiences. Engage in a conversation with the professor, expressing your concerns and requesting changes to promote inclusivity and diversity in the classroom. This will help strengthen your case and hold the professor accountable.

The department chair should be contacted after an initial conversation, as the uncomfortable process of addressing a racist professor or teacher can be challenging. Seeking guidance from student organizations can help navigate this process, ensuring inclusivity and equity in the classroom.
Seeking Support and Taking Legal Action
In May, seeking legal action against a racist professor may be necessary. Campus resources like the Office of Diversity and Inclusion can provide guidance and connect individuals with legal resources. Consult with an education law attorney to understand your rights and options. Standing up against racism and extremism is crucial for promoting positive change within academia.

Building an Inclusive Academic Environment

An inclusive academic environment is essential for preventing racism in the classroom. It requires collaboration from students, faculty, and administration. Advocating for diverse perspectives, including diverse materials, and promoting open dialogue are key steps to creating a welcoming environment.
Faculty and staff should also undergo training on unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, and inclusive teaching practices. This will ensure that they are equipped with the necessary tools to create an inclusive classroom environment.
Furthermore, it is important to establish clear policies and procedures for addressing discrimination and harassment. Encourage students to report any instances of racism or extremist ideologies, and ensure that these reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly.
Faculty and staff should receive training on unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, and inclusive teaching practices to create an inclusive classroom environment. Establish clear policies and encourage students against discrimination.
By actively working towards building an inclusive academic environment, we can create a space where all students feel safe, respected, and supported in their pursuit of education. Together, we can dismantle systemic racism and create a more equitable and inclusive educational system.

In general, we can say

Extremist ideologies can significantly impact the learning environment in academia, promoting discriminatory views based on race, religion, or other characteristics. These ideologies create an atmosphere of fear and exclusion, stifling open dialogue and hindering the free exchange of ideas. Academic freedom is crucial for higher education, but it must not be used as a cover for promoting extremist beliefs. Balancing academic freedom with maintaining an inclusive and safe environment requires clear guidelines and boundaries.

The impact of confronting racism and extremism in academia on students’ mental health and well-being is significant, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Encouraging self-care and seeking support is vital, and institutions should prioritize the mental well-being of their students.

Creating a positive learning environment requires a collective effort from students, faculty, and administrators, advocating for diverse perspectives and authors in the curriculum, and promoting open and respectful dialogue in the classroom.

Racism can be addressed in a number of ways

Step 1: Get knowledgeable. Recognize your rights as a pupil. Learn about the college’s anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.
Step 2: Maintain a log. Keep a record of any racist incidents, including the dates, times, and particular remarks or deeds. In the event that you need to escalate the matter, this will serve as proof.
Step 3: Make a support request. Tell dependable family members, friends, or student organizations about your experience so they can provide you with support and advice.
Step 4: Make a statement in class. Talk about the matter immediately with your lecturer in a composed and courteous manner. It’s critical to voice your worries about how their actions impact your capacity to learn.
Step 5: Document the event. Get in touch with the relevant college authority and provide them with your documents along with an explanation of how the situation affects your education if your lecturer doesn’t respond to your concerns.
Step 6 is to promote change. Participate in or start student-led campaigns to end racism and discrimination on campus.
That’s why we have to work on increasing awareness and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for everybody.
Recall that you are entitled to a welcoming and courteous learning environment. Don’t allow racism to go unopposed.

Best Regards

khedija Hafsi

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Khedija hafsi *Gasmia*
Holistic approaches

Stay-at-home mom and nurse pursuing a Medicine Holistique Diploma, promoting holistic wellness with divine guidance.