The Experiences of Black Women Diversity Practitioners in Historically White Institutions

Book excerpt: In recent decades, historically white institutions have advanced their focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within their organizations. Today, many organizations feature diversity practitioners within their workforce. Despite this, many historically white institutions such as education, business, and healthcare organizations still face systemic racism from within. In the wake of the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism, it is essential for historically white institutions to listen to the experiences of Black women diversity practitioners so that they may implement the necessary changes to promote a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment. The Experiences of Black Women Diversity Practitioners in Historically White Institutions centers on Black women’s experiences before, during, and after the dual pandemics at historically white higher education, corporate America, and healthcare institutions and how these experiences have affected their ability to perform their jobs. The stories and research provided offer crucial information for institutions to look inward at the cultures and practices for their organizations that directly impact Black women diversity practitioners. Covering topics such as guidance in leadership, Black woman leadership, and mindfulness training, this premier reference source is an essential resource for higher education staff and administration, Black women diversity practitioners, administration, leaders in business, hospital administration, libraries, students and educators of higher education, researchers, and academicians.