A Review of Black Student-Athletes’ College Experiences, Athlete Activism, & Activism in Summer 2020

Abstract

Black student-athletes have been highly stereotyped on college campuses for many years and have faced much racism and discrimination. In the summer of 2020, many of these athletes began sharing their negative experiences on social media as part of the wave of social activism that spread across the country after the death of George Floyd. Many also called for change both at their respective universities and at the societal level. This review first discusses Black student-athletes, including literature examining their experiences at Predominantly White institutions (PWIs). It will also share the history of athlete activism for professional and student-athletes, examples of Black athletes using their positions as agents of change in relation to social justice movements, and how student-athletes view activism. It concludes with a section discussing why it is necessary to provide student-athletes with a platform to speak out.