@MiraAssafK
I am sorry that happened. ❤️
To be honest, if you're afraid of breaching decorum, you might be right. Mastodon is not a monoculture. If you feel like the vibe is 'don't talk about things that matter to you', a different instance might treat you better. Of anyone, though, you are the most-qualified person to assess this.
I hope to hear more about racial injustices in academia on here, for what it's worth.
I really love your phrase "problem tooter", and would like to lend whatever heartfelt confidence you'd like to have in your life. "Problem tooter" is a delightful creation and you seem very cool.
I hope you follow your heart and be as much of a problem tooter as you would like. No obligation, though. :)