Creating Coalitions: Culture Centers, Anti-Asian Violence, and Black Lives Matter

Abstract

This article focuses on the role of modern-day culture centers in higher education. An interview of 26 staff members from campuses across the country found that culture centers took on a significant role in coalition building between Asian American and Black communities during the COVID-19 pandemic and the current time of racial reckoning. The leadership role of these centers during this time highlights expansion of their original basic mission. Beyond serving as “home away from home” and retention spaces for historically excluded communities, the centers became educational spaces that promote cross racial understanding and affirm multiracial identity. This article reveals the racial narrative about Asian Americans, including the dangers of the model minority myth. The article further provides key historical references to Black and Asian American coalition building in the 20th century, which influenced how culture centers evolved in increasing cross racial understanding on their campuses. With expertise in diversity, inclusion, and equity, the current centers’ staff members have the opportunity to serve as thought leaders for their campuses and enhance their role and the centers’ role in campus administrative policy development for racial and social justice.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Anna Gonzalez

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Anna Gonzalez ([email protected]) is vice chancellor for student affairs at Washington University in St. Louis. Other leadership roles she has held include serving on the board of NASPA and the Association for Asian American Studies.