Exploring the Role of Racism and Campus Responses in Student Belonging and Resource Use at Community Colleges

ABSTRACT This study reports on our exploration of the relationship between racism, campus responses, and the sense of belonging and resource engagement among Students of Color at US community colleges. Using data from the Center for Community College Student Engagement's (CCCSE) 2021 Race/Ethnicity survey, we explored personal and witnessed experiences of racism and evaluated student perceptions of institutional responses to racist incidents. Regression analyses revealed that direct and witnessed racism was negatively associated with students' sense of belonging; however, effective institutional responses and faculty/staff stances against racism were positively associated with students’ belonging and an increased likelihood of utilizing academic resources. The findings underscored the detrimental role of racism and highlighted the significance of proactive, meaningful campus responses in creating inclusive educational environments. Recommendations are provided for institutional practices that reduce racism, enhance belonging, and support the academic success of marginalized student populations .