Transforming Perspectives: Edinburgh University’s First Black Philosophy Professor Discusses Racism and the Need for Reform

Tommy J Curry stands out as the first Black philosophy professor at Edinburgh University, a significant milestone in its 440-year history. This role comes with great responsibility. Curry has spearheaded the university’s investigation into its ties to transatlantic slavery and the roots of racial science. His mission? To ensure he isn’t the last Black scholar in a position of influence.

“I grew up in poverty and at the end of segregation,” Curry notes. For him, being a trailblazer is not just a title. It is crucial to open doors for others who look like him. “If I only represent a story, I won’t create change.”

Curry is focused on genuine transformation rather than empty apologies. He believes in fostering a new generation of Black thinkers—doctors, engineers, artists—who can fill the void left by historical injustices. According to Curry, addressing historic wrongs, like slavery and colonialism, is vital for improving racial disparities in health, education, and employment.

The investigation at Edinburgh revealed alarming statistics: less than 1% of its workforce is Black. This static number highlights severe underrepresentation. In contrast, Asian staff have grown from 7% to 9% in recent years, indicating a different dynamic within the university. For context, among the 49,430 students at Edinburgh, only 2% identified as Black.

Recent census data shows that Scotland’s non-white minority population is about 7.1%, while Edinburgh’s stands over 15%. Compared to England and Wales, which have about 18.3% from minority ethnic backgrounds, Edinburgh’s figures show an urgent need for change.

Curry draws a parallel with the U.S., where, before the end of Jim Crow segregation, only about 1.2% of faculty were Black. “Scotland claims to be free from racism, yet outcomes here are similar to those of a segregated society,” he emphasizes.

The report urging Edinburgh to fund a center dedicated to studying racism and colonialism highlights the importance of real investment in these areas. This would not only facilitate the recruitment of Black scholars and students but also provide them with necessary resources for research.

Frith, who co-chairs the review, observed a shift in sentiment after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. This sparked a collective call for change among staff and students. The university, responding to these pressures, seeks to address its colonial past head-on.

Curry and Frith stress that addressing this history is not merely an academic exercise. “It shapes our society today,” Frith asserts. The university’s embrace of these recommendations could pave the way for significant change.

“When we consider our influence, establishing a center for Black scholars could reshape the academic landscape,” Curry states. “Edinburgh was at the forefront of these issues in the past. Why can’t it lead the charge for justice in the present?”

In closing, the journey is just beginning. Reflecting on racial equity is crucial, and institutions like Edinburgh hold the key to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.



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