Toward Inclusive Understanding and Practice of Diversity: Directions for Accommodating Muslim and other Religious Minoritized Students on University Campuses

Abstract

<p>Campus diversity efforts are central to a growing number of institutions of higher education. In spite of the inclusive connotation of the term, race takes precedence over other components of diversity. The emphasis on race can be understood in light of the unfortunate history of slavery and excessive injustices experienced by African Americans and other racial minorities in the U.S. Yet, there is a critical need to embrace a broader range of social identities if diversity efforts are intended to promote social justice for various minoritized groups. This article calls attention to religion as an overlooked component of diversity. It presents personal narrative showing discriminatory practices experienced by Muslim female graduate students at an U.S.institution of higher education. The article discusses how institutionalized marginalization of subordinate groups negatively impacts their civic engagement. The paper contributes to enhancing the campus climate for students with diverse religious preferences by offering recommendations for creating inclusive environments that recognize and welcome students from diverse religious orientations.</p>