African American Women in Academia: Intersectionality of Race and Gender

African American Women face a variety of issues in the academy, community and society. The strength of this group often lies in sisterhood, as to many, the saying “you are your sister’s keeper” rings true. This series addition addresses the concerns of African American Women in academia at the micro, mezzo and macro levels that can be used as the foundation for developing policies and intervention strategies to assist on their journey. Theoretical perspectives and practices that have impacted African American women in academia related to their individual and collective experiences are also explored. The literature provides a clear understanding of the intersectionality of being Black and a Woman. African American women employed in academia must balance perceived roles related to being Black and a woman. This is a difficult balancing act for many due to the systemic racism and gender bias that exist within the institutions, along with those that exist in society as a whole. The authors describe a variety of circumstances that have impacted their perceptions related to academic experiences. It is imperative that African American women learn how to successfully navigate systems and uncomfortable situations that occur within the academy. It is the responsibility of those who understand the academic process and have been successful in addressing issues that arise to reach back and assist those that will follow. They must continue to lift as they climb!