Examining whiteness and colorblind racism through social VR diversity, equity, and inclusion policies

Haley R. Hatfield (current Ph.D. student) and Glenna L. Read (2023, November). Examining whiteness and colorblind racism through social VR diversity, equity, and inclusion policies [Paper Presentation]. Communication and Social Cognition Division at the National Conference Association 109th Annual Convention, Washington D.C., United States.

Abstract: In response to global protests against racism and police violence in 2020, organizations committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, but some states later enacted legislation against them, prompting institutions to retract DEI statements. This research focuses on social virtual reality spaces as vital platforms for historically underrepresented individuals to connect and drive societal change. However, many such spaces have vague DEI policies that reinforce offline hierarchies, hindering inclusion. This research explores how individuals perceive DEI policies in social VR, their interaction with diversity representation, and their impact on safety, threat, comfort, and DEI support. Findings suggest that explicitly addressing Whiteness in DEI policies may unintentionally alienate dominant group members and decrease support for DEI initiatives centering historically underrepresented groups.