Research on Diversity

Diversity is a very important research subject for us. The question keeps coming back several times a year with slightly different angles depending on who is asking for what kind of research project.

The publication we use most is a history book “The University of Miami: A Golden Anniversary History, 1926-1976” written by Dr. Charlton W. Tebeau, 1904-2000, who was a professor at the UM, Chairman of the History Department, and a prominent historian of Florida. The chapter 12 of the book “Desegregation, Integration, and Minority” provides a perfect overview of the subject with many interesting historical facts and images.

The Miami Hurricane is also an excellent source for news and events on the subject. You could read articles on student protests on campus. Martin Luther King was invited to the University for a lecture in 1966.

The Miami Hurricane Archive Online, May 17, 1968 article on student protest

The Miami Hurricane Archive Online, May 13, 1966 article on Dr. King visited the university

The UM Historical Photograph Collection can offer you effective visual images related to the subject, such as Dr. King’s memorial service held on campus in spring 1968 and the Black Culture Week held on campus in the 1970s.

Historical images taken at the Black Culture Week in the 1970s

Also, we hold a collection titled “Malaika” published in the 1970s and 1980s by the United Black Students of the university. I used this collection recently for a patron who was looking for pictures of black faculty in the past. We would love to archive additional materials like this one if available.

Malaika, handbook written by and for the Black Students and faculty of the University of Miami, 1972-1985

Lastly, we would like to tell you we were proud to be a part of the research and exhibition effort for the Black History Month Exhibition held at the library for the first time this year. Please go to the link below for the subjects and exhibits presented at the exhibition. This wonderful website was created by my colleague Natapol Phensiriphand, Information Specialist, Education & Outreach department.

Themes and exhibits presented at Richter’s Black Heritage Month Exhibiton