The Seeds Are Sown: Towards Interracial Inclusivity at a UK Predominantly White Institution

The mental distress experienced by ethnic minority students studying at predominantly White institutions is well documented. These institutions and their spaces can be hostile environments for ethnic minority students and staff, leading to low retention, engagement and poor mental health. Often posited through a deficit lens, we challenge models that situate the experiences of what we call the resilient minority (ReM)—racialised ethnic groups—into categories to be fixed. By deploying qualitative research into Black and White university student experiences of racial inclusion, we explore alternative views to building stronger, more resilient communities. By further theorising interracial anxiety (the increased levels of anxiety felt by White people when interacting with ReM or experienced by ReM in predominantly White contexts), we highlight how decolonisation, built on representation and recognition, not only generates important discussions about interracial anxiety but also creates opportunities for change. We evidence how the representation of ReM groups through a Black feminist and decolonial critique in predominantly White contexts can reduce anxiety, promote wellbeing and potentially foster interracial inclusivity in higher education.