Black women, ivory tower Revealing the lies of White supremacy in American education

Recent controversies with legacy admittances to universities in the United States make this book a timely volume for readers wanting more background on the topic of racism in academia. Harris began her academic career at Vassar, the only Black person on her residence floor there. She dealt with systemic racism her entire life. Here, she contextualizes wider notions of belonging and how institutions set up conditions to impose barriers in the paths of Black students and staff. Breaking down the erasure of Black women in academia, Harris explores the systems that make them fail or quit. This departure of Black teachers causes Black students not to see themselves reflected in leadership roles. It also reinforces a glut of Eurocentric narratives that diminish Black history. Issues of physical safety and reporting structures are also explored. Black Women, Ivory Tower is highly recommended for academic and public libraries and for readers who are interested in systemic racism and higher education.