anti-racism | Campus Safe Words

TERM: anti-racism
RISK LEVEL: High

Why It’s Risky

“Anti-racism” is closely tied to contemporary DEI initiatives and critical race theory frameworks, both of which are targeted by laws such as Florida’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act, Texas Senate Bill 17, and Arkansas Act 1002. These measures prohibit public institutions from promoting or compelling belief in systemic racism as an inherent feature of society or public policy. Using “anti-racism” in official communications, course descriptions, or training programs may be perceived as endorsing ideologically driven or divisive viewpoints, which state-level policymakers have explicitly opposed.

Common Critiques

Critics argue that “anti-racism” implies that neutrality or colorblindness is itself racist, thus mandating political engagement rather than fostering open dialogue. The term is often associated with authors and training materials that promote concepts like privilege, implicit bias, and systemic oppression—concepts some policymakers claim are incompatible with educational neutrality. Additionally, “anti-racism” is often viewed as coercive, framing dissent as moral failure rather than intellectual disagreement.

When It’s Still Appropriate

The term may be appropriate when used analytically in history, sociology, or political science courses to describe specific movements, texts, or policies. It can also appear in citations of published scholarship when faculty are examining the evolution of racial discourse. In these contexts, instructors should present “anti-racism” as one of several frameworks and avoid framing it as an institutional norm or expectation.

Suggested Substitutes

1. Civil rights history (for historical content)

2. Equal treatment (in legal or policy discussions)

3. Inclusive practices (used with care and specificity)

4. Non-discrimination (in compliance or HR contexts)

5. Racial equity efforts (when describing external initiatives, use cautiously)

Notes:
Avoid using “anti-racism” in mission statements, learning outcomes, or hiring language unless legally required or clearly tied to disciplinary content. When discussing the term, include multiple perspectives and note current legal and policy debates. Ensure that materials referencing anti-racism are framed as part of academic inquiry rather than institutional advocacy.