Abstract
In 2020, multiracial coalitions in major cities throughout the world took to the streets to express their anger and frustration regarding the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbury, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, Tony McDade, and the continued pervasive impact of systemic racism resulting in Black folx disproportionately suffering the negative impact of the coronavirus. In response to this challenging context, this essay provides some direction as to how traditionally white institutions (TWIs) can move away from superficial enactments of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and instead adopt a racial equity strategy that nurtures and values Black Excellence. Specifically, the essay begins with a critical analysis of the current context of education facing Black folx in TWIs by highlighting the conditions that serve as barriers to Black Excellence and concludes with some concrete suggestions as to how higher education institutions can move beyond performative DEI efforts to demonstrate a real commitment to nurturing and valuing Black lives.
