Learning on the Margins: Blacks within the U.S. Higher Education System

Diversity is an imperative within the U.S. higher education system in the twenty-first century. As victims of slavery and the undergirding racist philosophies that were used to justify it, Blacks have had to fight for equity within higher education and society at large. This paper briefly traces the plight of Blacks within the U.S. higher education system. This examination includes a discussion of the historical subordination of Blacks by Whites and how this history led to laws and institutional practices that excluded Blacks from higher education participation. Several policies and legislation are discussed in terms of expanding educational opportunities and equity for Blacks. The history and role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are addressed in addition to faculty and staff representation issues concerning Blacks.