Privilege and Cancel Culture in Higher Education

Privilege does not have to be the nasty word that it has become. Instead when we recognize that we stand in a place of privilege, we are given the opportunity to use that privilege to the aid and benefit of others. In a recent article, I shared some of the places of privilege that are present in higher education leadership. My goal is not to shine a negative light on privilege but rather to refocus it for greater clarity. I believe that privilege should not be a place of punishment, persecution or cancellation. Instead, I believe that each of us should identify our privileges to become effective allies. As such it is our duty as leaders to take a cautious look at Cancel Culture and amplify opportunities to raise Cultural Awareness.

What is Cancel Culture?

Cancel culture must be something if it has officially made it into the dictionary. Merriarm Webster defines cancel culture as mass canceling as a way of expressing disapproval. Cancel culture is the way by which an individual, brand or organization is pushed out of social or professional circles. We have seen it happen from the biggest of celebrities right down to the individuals on our campuses. Pew Research Center recently conducted some research examining American views on cancel culture worth sharing. A variety of opinions are expressed which means there are a variety of ways to address cancel culture.

The Anecdotes to Cancel Culture

I do not believe that cancel culture should be the default response to situations. Instead, my leadership approach is one of compassion and hope. I believe that education, accountability and allyship can be used in place of cancel culture.

• Education

When the oppressor is open to be educated, we must educate before, or instead of, canceling. Cultural Awareness and education will be the key that penetrates years of oppression and opens the door of equality.

• Accountability

Accountability is not cancel culture. Cancel culture has no grace, no empathy. As a leader who understands the impact of compassion and vulnerability on connection, I know that accountability is essential. Accountability can take an individual far in their personal and professional growth.

• Allyship

People of privilege can use their privilege for good, to the benefit of others. The holding of a position of privilege is an opportunity to be an active ally to others. Leaders with positions of privilege within higher education can take responsibility for making changes that benefit the success of others.

We know that Cancel Culture exists. We also know that there can be opportunities for true reconciliation when an individual, brand or organization puts in the work to repair their credibility. Those of us in higher ed have the chance to be champions of change when it comes to both cancel culture and privilege. We have the ability to lead from a place of compassion — what would happen if you were canceled for a mistake? How would it impact your life’s bottom line? In my program A Cautious Look at Cancel Culture, we dig deep into bringing awareness to the success in cancellation while ensuring that it does not become the default mode of operation. I am urging leaders to pause before hitting cancel on their colleagues, students or others. I’m not saying cancel cancel culture. I am saying take the camera off automatic shutter and focus through the lens of compassion.