Black History at Trinity College: Celebrating Diversity, Confronting Challenges
By Jorge E. Espinoza-Gonzalez
This year at the Bicentennial, our school committed to leading the way into the modern world, to take Trinity into the future. But the school has a problem. Trinity College is obviously a Pre-Dominantly White Institution (PWI). That means that for most of its history, the college has been filled with (mostly) white students—just like Harvard, Yale, and any institution in not just New England but in the entire country. Yet, schools like Harvard and Yale have and continue to actively fix that—is Trinity? The modern college cannot act like it is still in the mid-20th century; it needs and should seek diversity. That is why celebrating and upholding diversity is key, key for the college to enter and solidify its place in the modern world. Trinity College needs to identify itself as a modern institution; seeking diversity can be the catalyst to become that. But how can it do that? I don’t have an answer to that, but I do have an idea: seek it by committing to celebrating diversity and where better to do so but with the current Trinity community? Which is why I dedicate this piece to the importance of Black History month, and I hope to highlight its vitalness to every Bantam on campus.
The college, as everyone knows, opened its doors in 1823. In its inception, Trinity College focused predominantly on providing education to white students, reflecting the norms of the time—as only white men went to college then. Access to education for Black individuals was severely limited, with systemic barriers—from slavery to racism— preventing them from pursuing higher learning opportunities within institutions like Trinity. As a refresher to your high school American History course, institutional barriers in college admissions were established, upheld, and defended after the liberation of enslaved people. This was part of a grand plan to keep minorities in ‘their place,’—in simpler terms, preventing minorities from attending college would keep them at the bottom of the socioeconomic hierarchy.
Despite challenges like these, Trinity’s history bears witness to the resilience and determination of Black individuals who sought and fought to be educated within its walls. Yet, from the very start, Black students had to (and some would say, continue to) learn to navigate a landscape rife with prejudice. Prejudice can masquerade into various forms, some apparent and some not. Prejudice is not something that can be obvious to those that have not experienced it before, so it is of utmost importance that we listen—listen to those that have. Prejudice is something that we must actively attempt to correct and never justify.
The first academic degree was awarded by Trinity College to a Black individual in 1830. Although some Black students were admitted in the late 1950s, it was not until 1968 when the Trinity administration began to address racism in its admission process. As a product, more people of color entered the halls that fall. Women, who have historically faced similar prejudice as people of color, were to be admitted the next year. Yet, despite these hurdles, Black scholars emerged, challenging the status quo and paving the path for the future.
Likewise, Black faculty who faced similar exclusionary policies persevered. Slowly, but surely, their expertise and perspectives began to enrich the academic and cultural landscape, challenging students to view the world through multiple lens and preparing them for an integrated and diverse America. Their presence not only challenged stereotypes and broadened the horizons of pupils, but also shaped the values that Trinity would hold dear in the 21st century: modernity.
Love her or hate her, it is important to note that Joanne Berger-Sweeney, is the first woman, first African American, and first neuroscientist to take on the role of Trinity College President. That is major.
The observance of Black History month at Trinity reflects the recognition of the contributions and struggles of past and present Black individuals on campus paired with the broader American historical context. Early initiatives centered around grassroots efforts and nowadays consists of special lectures, panels, and cultural events often led by clubs like, but not limited to, Men of Color Alliance, Trinity’s African Students Association, Caribbean Students’ Association, and Imani Black Student Union. These activities not only highlight the achievements and contributions of Black individuals but also explore the complexities of Black history and culture from diverse perspectives.
By providing opportunities for engagement and honest dialogue, Black History Month initiatives help deepen the understanding and appreciation of Black heritage and its significance in shaping not just American society but Trinity society as well. Black History month serves as a catalyst for broader conversations around equity, justice, and social change, prompting individuals within the community of Trinity to reflect on its role in advancing racial equality and combating systemic racism. Through its diverse array of activities and events, Black History Month at Trinity inspires critical thinking, empathy, and activism, empowering individuals to become agents of positive change within the collegiate community.
In the ongoing struggle for racial equality, it becomes increasingly apparent that the depths of societal inequities are profound and multifaceted. Yet, amidst the complexities and challenges, the month of February stands as a beacon of resilience and hope— a chance to pause, to bask in the luminance of progress, and to honor the indomitable spirit of those who have paved the way. As we, the Trinity community, navigate the intricate terrain of social change, it is vital that we not only acknowledge
the triumphs of the past but also to reaffirm our commitment to the ongoing struggle for justice and equity.
Truthfully, the journey toward racial equality is far from over, but in this celebration of Black History Month, we must find inspiration and courage to continue pressing forward. Let us seize this opportunity to amplify voices, challenge injustices, and forge a future defined by dignity, respect, and equality for all.