Diversity

The History Department is committed to creating a world that is free of violence and discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, age, disability status, national origin, and/or political ideology.

In keeping with the Boston College mission of educating people for others, we affirm the following:

  • The discipline of History has the unique power to explain how forms of oppression have been interconnected in the past. The discipline can also provide a usable past for marginalized groups who have not traditionally seen their stories reflected in scholarship or in the classroom.
  • Students have a right to learn and faculty and staff have a right to work in an environment that is free of racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of bigotry.
  • Classrooms and workplaces that are diverse and in which everyone is respected are the environments that foster success and growth.
  • Diversity and excellence are not only compatible; they are mutually dependent.

In light of these affirmations, we resolve to do the following:

  • Increase the representation of underrepresented minority groups in our faculty ranks. To this end, we will consider diversity as one factor, among many, when determining our hiring priorities; we have established and will maintain best practices for considering diversity in the hiring process; and we will strive to maintain an environment that is conducive to the retention of faculty from underrepresented groups.
  • Increase the representation of underrepresented groups in our graduate program. To this end, we will consider diversity as one factor, among many, when making admissions decisions. 
  • Increase the representation of underrepresented groups in our undergraduate major; diversify the undergraduate curriculum; and provide research and internship opportunities on the history of underrepresented groups.
  • Provide the necessary support for our faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate majors from underrepresented groups to thrive in their intellectual and professional pursuits.
  • Foster classroom and workplace environments that affirm the dignity and value of every individual.
  • Stand against racism and all other forms of bigotry.

35%

of BC undergraduates identify as AHANA*

* Individuals of African, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent

101

Number of countries represented by BC's international students

Campus-Wide Resources

Accessibility Resources

Boston College strives to ensure individuals with disabilities feel welcomed, have the support they need, and have equal access to all resources.

Courageous Conversations

Courageous Conversations Towards Racial Justice is a dialogue-centered initiative on racism and privilege designed to address racial healing, equity, and justice.

Forum on Racial Justice in America

This forum provides a meeting place for dialogue about race and racism in the U.S., while serving as a catalyst for bridging differences, promoting reconciliation, and encouraging new perspectives.

LGBTQ Resources

Boston College is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all students and to positively impact and improve the LGBTQ+ student experience.

Montserrat Coalition

A campus-wide network of assistance, mentorship, and support for students with high financial need to help them achieve a successful experience at BC.

Office for Institutional Diversity

Dedicated to advancing a Boston College culture and climate that is welcoming to all—through leadership, support, education, compliance, and policy.

Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center

This center supports and empowers undergraduate students, with a particular focus on AHANA, multicultural, and multiethnic issues.

Veterans Services

Boston College proudly welcomes all veterans of the United States Armed Forces and is committed to helping them find the resources they require to thrive here.

Women's Center

The Women’s Center was founded in 1973 to support, educate, and empower Boston College students of all genders in an inclusive and welcoming space.

Campus-Wide Support

Boston College's Office for Institutional Diversity offers a wide range of resources, programs, and affinity groups to ensure that all students feel supported, seen, and able to thrive here on campus.

Explore Campus Resources