When DEI Works: A Wikipedia Editor’s Perspective

For the past ten years, I have been a volunteer Wikipedia editor, contributing to an ever-growing body of knowledge that millions of people access daily. My work focuses on creating and improving articles about African Americans, Africans, and the African diaspora—topics that are often underrepresented in mainstream historical narratives. As an African American editor, I have witnessed firsthand how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives can succeed when individuals actively participate in shaping knowledge.

Why I Write: The Power of Representation

I began editing Wikipedia because I saw gaps in representation. Too often, the histories, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals and communities were either missing or incomplete. I knew that if I wanted to see change, I had to be part of it.

Wikipedia’s mission is to provide free knowledge to everyone, but knowledge is only as inclusive as the people who contribute to it. By focusing on topics that matter to my community, I ensure that our stories are told, our history is documented, and our contributions are acknowledged.

DEI in Action: My Experience as an African American Editor

DEI is not just a buzzword; it is a practice. Every time I research, write, and publish an article, I am putting DEI into action. My work has covered historical figures, cultural movements, and institutions that have shaped Black life in the U.S. and beyond.

When I write about a forgotten Black inventor, an African philosopher, or a groundbreaking activist, I am making knowledge more equitable. These stories deserve to be told, not just for the sake of representation, but because they are part of the global human experience.

The Struggles of DEI on Wikipedia

Wikipedia is a platform built on collaboration and consensus, but that does not mean it is free of bias. Systemic issues—such as the reliance on traditional sources that have historically ignored Black voices—can make it difficult to write about underrepresented topics. Sometimes, adding content about African American history is met with resistance, whether due to skepticism about sources or a lack of awareness about the subject’s significance.

Despite these challenges, the work must continue. Each article added is a small victory against historical erasure.

The Impact: Why This Work Matters

Over the years, I have seen the impact of my contributions. Articles I have worked on have been cited in research papers, shared in classrooms, and used as reference points in discussions about Black history and culture. Wikipedia is often the first place people go to learn about a topic, and when they find well-researched, accurate information about African Americans and the African diaspora, it shifts the narrative.

The work of Black Wikipedia editors—and editors from all underrepresented backgrounds matter. It ensures that the sum of all human knowledge includes all humans.

Conclusion: 

Wikipedia is only as diverse as its contributors. If we want to see a more inclusive, equitable representation of knowledge, we must take an active role in creating it. I encourage more people, especially those from historically marginalized communities, to become editors. Your knowledge, your perspective, and your history are valuable.

DEI works when we make it work. And for the past ten years, I have been honored to be part of that process.

---