Construções identitárias e reconhecimento da diversidade numa universidade pública // Identity constructions and recognition of diversity in a public university

Abstract

The increased access of minorities to higher education has contributed to universities reaffirming themselves as favorable spaces for mobilizing around identity agendas. This article examines the impact of established power relations on the identity constructions of university students and analyzes the experiences of three distinct groups: women, people of black race/color, and those with diverse sexual orientations. The research investigates these students' perception of the university as an institution capable of recognizing and valuing differences. Individual interviews and focus groups were conducted with 22 students from a federal university in Minas Gerais, and the collected data was analyzed using the content analysis method. The research findings confirm the influence of discriminatory experiences on students' identities and highlight the need for comprehensive and systematic measures to address issues related to prejudice, physical and mental health care, socioeconomic factors, and other aspects. Furthermore, the article discusses proposals put forth by university students, emphasizing the importance of creating more spaces where those most impacted by public inclusion policies can have their voices heard and their demands legitimized.