Discrimination against non-European Portuguese variants in Portuguese universities remains a pressing issue, particularly affecting African and Brazilian Portuguese speakers. This paper examines the challenges these students and faculty face, who often encounter linguistic prejudice and exclusion in academic settings dominated by European Portuguese norms. These environments frequently fail to acknowledge the linguistic identities of African and Brazilian speakers, perpetuating marginalization. Drawing on recent research and my experience as a Portuguese university teacher, this paper offers a sociolinguistic reflection on the topic. It explores the contradiction between political discourses promoting linguistic inclusion and the systemic marginalization of other Portuguese variants, different from European Portuguese, in higher education. The analysis considers the profound impact of such discrimination on students’ academic success, cultural integration, and sense of belonging. The paper calls for more inclusive linguistic policies and practices in Portuguese universities, emphasizing the need to recognize the diversity and richness of all Portuguese variants. It advocates for creating an equitable academic and cultural environment where all Portuguese speakers, regardless of their variant, are valued and respected. This contribution seeks to raise awareness and drive change towards a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.

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