marginalize | Campus Safe Words

TERM: marginalize
RISK LEVEL: high

Definition

“Marginalize” means to relegate individuals or groups to a lower or less influential status within a society, organization, or institution. In higher education, the term is often used in discussions of systemic barriers, discrimination, student support services, and DEI-related programming to describe the exclusion or undervaluing of certain populations.

Why It’s Risky

The term “marginalize” has become politically sensitive, particularly in states enforcing laws that limit DEI initiatives and critical perspectives on identity, such as Florida’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act and Texas Senate Bill 17. Critics argue that using “marginalize” frames disparities as intentional or systemic wrongdoing by institutions or broader society, aligning with grievance-driven narratives. When used in strategic plans, diversity training, or public statements, the term can imply institutional guilt or advocacy for redistributive policies, triggering concerns about compelled speech, political bias, and mission drift. In politically regulated environments, references to marginalization may expose institutions to audits, legislative inquiries, reputational risks, or funding threats.

Common Critiques

Critics contend that “marginalize” promotes a narrative of victimhood and collective grievance, emphasizing identity-based grievances rather than individual opportunity and merit. They argue that the term often presumes intent and systemic oppression without adequate evidence, leading to divisive programming that distracts from academic goals. In states with active regulatory oversight, language around marginalization has been used to justify defunding DEI offices, revising hiring practices, and restricting identity-focused training. Some opponents claim that frequent references to marginalization create a hostile environment for students and faculty with traditional, religious, or conservative viewpoints, undermining intellectual diversity. Institutions that characterize disparities as marginalization risk being perceived as partisan or activist, making them vulnerable to political backlash, leadership turnover, or donor withdrawal.

Suggested Substitutes

Challenges faced by certain student populations (in support materials);
Barriers to full participation (in program descriptions);
Obstacles to academic success (in institutional reports);
Support for equitable access to opportunities (in strategic planning);
Efforts to promote engagement across all communities (in outreach initiatives)

These alternatives acknowledge challenges while maintaining a neutral, opportunity-focused framing.

When It May Still Be Appropriate

“Marginalize” may be appropriate in academic research, critical theory coursework, or elective programming where the term is clearly defined and contextually analyzed. It can also appear in grant applications that require specific terminology. In broader institutional communications, prefer neutral phrasing that focuses on access, opportunity, and mission alignment to ensure compliance and protect institutional reputation.

NOTES: Use “marginalize” cautiously outside of academic research or federally mandated documents. Emphasize access, opportunity, and success metrics rather than framing issues through presumed systemic intent or grievance narratives.