Ecology is a complex discipline of great societal relevance with intersections across numerous fields of study that occur at multiple spatial and temporal scales. Diverse participation is essential for the success and advancement of the discipline; yet, ecology remains composed of one of the most homogenous scholar pools among STEM fields. Diversity initiatives and performative allyship have improved participation of women and other marginalized identities, but representation of Black ecologists remains low. We assert that low diversity among ecologists limits the field’s capacity to meet disciplinary objectives and societal needs, as global ecological crises associated with climate change and biodiversity loss exacerbate global social inequities. As Blackologists, we emphasize the necessity of unpacking racial barriers that dissuade recruitment of Black people and hinder the retention and advancement of Black scholars and professionals who persist in ecology despite extreme disadvantages, trauma, and injustice. Not discounting challenges and biases experienced by other marginalized groups, we focus explicitly on the unique experience of Black ecologists whose cultural tax is pervasive, where societal brutality interacts with professional performance, and whose mere presence threatens. Lack of diverse participation in ecology traces back to colonial conquests and continues to be perpetuated by institutional structures that advantage whiteness to the exclusion of other identities. Beginning with the historical positioning of nature as devoid of human activities and the resulting dehumanizing of many people of non-Western cultures through the study of ecology, we underscore the inherent fusion between identity and ecology. These couplings broadly manifest throughout domains of: 1) infrastructure, which refers to setting disciplinary standards and assessment, research support, and research communication; 2) community, which refers to the distinct experiences of ecologists at different career stages; and 3) activities, which refers to engagement, training, and research responsibilities. Unifying themes in this presentation are the inextricable relationship between identity and inquiry, and that between societal biases and scientific practice. We emphasize that only by confronting the racial biases that permeate ecological inquiry and practice can diversity be improved, and inclusive excellence achieved. We offer strategies to de-center majority narratives and interrogate the racism and prejudice embedded within ecology at every level. In this way, ecology can transform into an equitable and just discipline poised to meet global needs.