multicultural | Campus Safe Words

TERM: multicultural
RISK LEVEL: High

Definition

“Multicultural” refers to the presence, recognition, or celebration of multiple cultural traditions within a given setting. In higher education, the term often appears in the names of campus centers, student organizations, curriculum initiatives, and programming designed to promote inclusion or celebrate diversity across lines of race, ethnicity, nationality, and sometimes religion.

Why It’s Risky

Though once considered neutral or even inclusive, the term “multicultural” has come under increased scrutiny in conservative political contexts. It is often associated with programs that prioritize cultural identity over shared national or civic values, which some critics see as contributing to social division. When used to frame curriculum, faculty hiring, or student services, “multicultural” can appear to endorse a relativist worldview or identity-based politics. This has made it a target in states with legislative efforts to restrict race-conscious or ideology-driven practices in education, including Florida’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act and Texas SB 17.

The word also risks being interpreted as code for race-based programming or politically progressive agendas, particularly when coupled with terms like “justice,” “equity,” or “allyship.” Use of “multicultural” in course titles, office names, or student training materials may invite administrative review or donor pushback, especially in politically sensitive climates.

Common Critiques

Conservative critiques of “multicultural” focus on several points. First, the term is often viewed as reinforcing group identity over individual merit or civic unity. Critics argue that programs labeled as “multicultural” can foster a separatist mindset, where students are encouraged to affiliate primarily with others who share their cultural background, thereby undermining integration and mutual understanding.

Second, the term is frequently tied to campus activities that are perceived as politically charged or ideologically one-sided. For example, multicultural centers may host programming that frames U.S. history in terms of oppression or promotes activism around identity-based causes. Legislators and trustees in states with active DEI restrictions have cited such programming as evidence of institutional bias.

Third, the term has become associated with administrative bloat. Offices and staff devoted to “multicultural affairs” are sometimes criticized for expanding non-academic functions without measurable outcomes, drawing resources away from instruction or student success initiatives with broader appeal.

Finally, critics argue that multiculturalism, as a framework, discourages assimilation and can marginalize values like free speech, academic rigor, or national cohesion. In this view, the term elevates cultural difference over common purpose, fostering division rather than inclusion.

Acceptable Alternatives

1. Cross-cultural

2. Culturally responsive (when referring to pedagogy)

3. International perspectives

4. Global learning

5. Student belonging or campus engagement

When It’s Still Appropriate

“Multicultural” remains appropriate when referring to legacy names of student organizations (e.g., Multicultural Student Union), in specific academic contexts such as anthropology or sociology courses, or when citing federal or accreditation criteria. It may also be acceptable when tied to international student support or language learning, provided the usage avoids ideological framing.

Notes:

Avoid pairing “multicultural” with terms like “liberation,” “systemic bias,” or “resistance” in public-facing materials. When used, emphasize individual development, intercultural skills, or global readiness. Consider phasing out the term in office or program names where politically defensible substitutes are available.