In recent years, colleges and universities across the country have been reckoning with their ties to historical racism and the need to make changes to promote racial equity and inclusion. One area that has come under scrutiny is the English department, which has traditionally been rooted in a Eurocentric, white literary canon.

Acknowledging that this narrow focus can perpetuate systems of oppression and exclude voices and perspectives from marginalized communities, many colleges and universities are making changes to their English curriculum and faculty hiring practices to better reflect the diversity of the world.

One of the ways institutions are addressing this issue is by incorporating more diverse voices and perspectives into their reading lists. This includes works by authors of color, LGBTQ+ writers, and indigenous voices, among others. By broadening the scope of the curriculum, students are exposed to a more inclusive range of stories and experiences that can help challenge assumptions and foster empathy and understanding.

In addition to diversifying the curriculum, colleges and universities are also making efforts to increase the diversity of their English department faculty. By hiring more professors from underrepresented backgrounds, institutions are able to bring a wider range of perspectives and experiences to the classroom, creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

Furthermore, colleges are also implementing training programs and workshops for faculty and staff to help them recognize and address issues of racism and bias in the classroom. These initiatives can help create a more welcoming and supportive environment for students of all backgrounds.

Overall, the changes being made in English departments across the country are a crucial step towards addressing historical racism and promoting equity and inclusion in higher education. By acknowledging and confronting these issues, colleges and universities are taking proactive steps to create a more just and equitable academic community for all students.