The idea of racial diversity on campuses is something that goes back to Brown vs. the Board of Education. As a result of this monumental case, schools have had the challenge of finding ways to increase diversity in schools. Tackling this challenge is not all in vain. In fact, studies show that diversity among students leads to higher levels of critical thinking and a greater understanding of people’s differences (Antonio et al., 2004). With 25% of the University of Oregon’s students being minorities (University of Oregon., 2016), the Eugene area is slowly turning into a hub for diversity. With diversity comes the chance of negative racial interactions. Considering that only approximately 13% of students report racial incidents (Hurtado & Ruiz, 2012), it’s important to address these situations before they occur.
By: Scotty Williams II